Sudan has reopened its market to Kenyan tea imports.
Sudan’s trade minister has ordered authorities to remove tea import restrictions, reopening an important market for Kenyan exporters.
Sudan has lifted its ban on Kenyan tea imports, clearing the way for exporters to resume trade. The decision reopens one of Kenya’s important foreign markets after restrictions lasting more than a year.
Trade Minister Mahasin Ali Yaqoub ordered the immediate removal of the restrictions on November 11. She also directed all relevant authorities to implement the decision.
Approval clears Kenyan tea imports
Sudan’s Sovereignty Council formally approved the move in a letter dated November 2, 2026. A Cabinet communication followed on November 5, ahead of the trade minister’s directive.
The reopening offers renewed opportunities for Kenyan tea exporters whose trade with Sudan suffered under the restrictions. When the ban took effect, tea worth more than Ksh3.1 billion was already in transit or awaiting shipment.
Kenya relies on overseas markets to support its tea industry, which contributes significantly to foreign exchange earnings. The removal of the restrictions therefore opens a route for restoring tea shipments disrupted by the diplomatic dispute.
Nairobi RSF meeting triggered trade dispute
Sudan suspended all imports from Kenya in March 2025 after Kenya hosted the Rapid Support Forces in Nairobi. The RSF is fighting the Sudanese army for control of the country.
The restrictions also barred Kenyan tea from entering Sudan through ports, railways and air transport. Sudan accused Kenya of hosting and sponsoring the rebel group, arguing that the ban would protect its national interests and security.
The dispute followed a February 22, 2025 meeting in Nairobi, where the RSF and allied rebel groups signed a political charter. They sought to establish a parallel administration to Sudan’s government.
Two days later, Sudan’s Assistant Foreign Minister Hussein Al Fadil warned of a potential import ban. He accused Kenya of interfering in Sudan’s internal affairs by hosting events for the RSF and its allies. Fadil also argued that those activities threatened Sudan’s security, stability and unity.
