Trump Administration Notifies Congress of Intent to Negotiate Trade Agreement with Kenya

On March 17, 2020, at the direction of President Donald J. Trump, United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer notified Congress that the Trump Administration will negotiate a trade agreement with Kenya.

In officially notifying Congress, the U.S. Trade Representative is following the procedures set out in the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015 – often referred to as Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) – which requires ongoing consultations with Congress. These consultations ensure that USTR develops negotiating positions with the benefit of Congress’ views. USTR will also publish a notice in the Federal Register requesting the public’s input on the direction, focus and content of the trade negotiations.

In accordance with TPA, the U.S. Trade Representative will publish objectives of the negotiations with Kenya at least 30 days before formal trade negotiations begin.