India and Kenya Explore Local Currency Trade Settlement to Boost Bilateral Commerce
India, Kenya discuss possibility of trade settlement in local currencies
The Economic TimesImage: The Economic Times
India and Kenya are considering settling trade transactions in local currencies to enhance bilateral trade, which reached $4.31 billion in 2025-26, a 24.91% increase from the previous year. Discussions included digital payment collaborations and a memorandum of understanding to streamline customs procedures.
- 01India and Kenya are discussing trade settlement in local currencies.
- 02Bilateral trade increased to $4.31 billion in 2025-26.
- 03The Local Currency Settlement mechanism aims to facilitate smoother transactions.
- 04An MoU was signed to improve customs procedures between the two nations.
- 05Collaboration on digital payment systems was also a key discussion point.
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India and Kenya are actively exploring the option of settling trade transactions in local currencies to bolster bilateral commerce. This initiative was highlighted during the India-Kenya Joint Trade Committee meeting held on April 27-28, 2023, co-chaired by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal from India and Regina Akotah Ombam, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Trade in Kenya. The discussions also focused on enhancing digital public infrastructure, including the development of UPI-like payment systems and Bharat Connect, aimed at improving financial inclusion. The bilateral trade between the two countries reached $4.31 billion in the fiscal year 2025-26, marking a significant 24.91% increase from $3.45 billion in 2024-25. Additionally, Kenyan banks have established Special Rupee Vostro Accounts with Indian banks, which could facilitate smoother transactions. An important memorandum of understanding was signed between the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) of India and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to streamline customs procedures and enhance the ease of doing business.
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The potential shift to local currency transactions could reduce costs for businesses engaged in trade between India and Kenya, making it easier for them to operate without currency conversion fees.
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