The commitment was made during high-level bilateral talks between William Ruto and Samia Suluhu Hassan, culminating in the signing of eight key agreements spanning energy, transport, trade, and infrastructure development.
The two leaders said the move to remove NTBs such as bureaucratic delays, excessive inspections, and inconsistent customs procedures would unlock the full potential of trade between the neighboring nations.
Kenya and Tanzania are among East Africa’s largest economies, and their cooperation is considered critical to the success of the East African Community (EAC).
President Ruto noted that the persistence of non-tariff barriers has long undermined business growth and strained relations between the two countries.
“We have agreed on a time-bound framework to eliminate all barriers that hinder the free flow of goods and services. This is a significant step toward creating a seamless business environment,” he said.
President Samia Suluhu echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the agreements mark a new chapter in Kenya-Tanzania relations.
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She said both governments are committed to ensuring that traders, investors, and citizens benefit directly from improved cooperation.
“We are focused on practical solutions that will ease trade and foster economic growth for our people,” she said.
Among the eight agreements signed are deals aimed at enhancing cross-border electricity trade, developing railway connectivity and harmonizing standards for goods and services.
The energy agreement is expected to facilitate power sharing between the two nations, reducing costs and improving reliability, while the railway deal seeks to boost cargo movement and regional logistics efficiency.
Trade between Kenya and Tanzania has historically been affected by periodic disputes, often linked to regulatory differences and protectionist measures.
However, recent diplomatic efforts have helped ease tensions, paving the way for more collaborative engagements.
Analysts say the decision to eliminate NTBs could significantly boost intra-regional trade volumes, lower the cost of doing business, and attract new investments. Small-scale traders, who are often the most affected by border inefficiencies, stand to gain considerably from the reforms.
The June 30 deadline sets an ambitious timeline, but both governments have expressed confidence in their ability to deliver.
Implementation committees have been established to monitor progress and ensure compliance across relevant agencies.
If successfully executed, the agreements could serve as a model for broader regional integration efforts within the EAC, reinforcing the bloc’s vision of a single market and customs union.
