The Sudanese Embassy in Nairobi has formally stated that Khartoum has halted all imports from Kenya, citing national interests and claiming that no Kenyan items, including the country's famous tea, have reached Sudanese markets since the policy was implemented.

In a press release dated April 1, 2025, the embassy reported that Sudan's Ministry of Trade and Supply issued the decree on March 11, 2025, and that it has been completely executed.

"Sudan remains firmly committed to upholding this trade policy," the statement says, underlining the country's sovereign right to set its own economic and diplomatic course.

Claims of continued imports were denied as "unfounded and inaccurate."

At the same time, the embassy reaffirmed Sudan's commitment to regional cooperation and constructive engagement built on mutual respect and non-interference.

Relationships strained
The declaration comes as diplomatic tensions between Sudan and Kenya rise over Nairobi's suspected support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group fighting the Sudanese Armed Forces.

Relations deteriorated significantly earlier this year after RSF leaders reportedly met in Nairobi to discuss launching a rival administration.

Khartoum saw the action as a direct challenge to Sudan's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Sudan has harshly chastised Kenya for reportedly hosting and legitimizing the RSF leadership, which it describes as a "terrorist militia."

Diplomatic reprisal ensued, including public protests by Sudanese officials, a freeze on bilateral contacts, and now the ban of Kenyan imports.

Economic implications.

The trade prohibition has substantial repercussions, notably for Kenyan exporters. Kenya has historically had strong trading links with Sudan, with exports expected to reach around KES 20 billion ($140 million) in 2022, according to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics.
Tea, medicines, edible oils, and manufactured items are among the most important exports.

Kenyan tea, one of the country's main exports, has proven particularly popular in Sudan's consumer market.

Sudan is one of the region's largest importers of Kenyan tea, and the ban threatens to disrupt trade flows and revenue streams for both exporters and dealers.

Economic implications.
The trade prohibition has substantial repercussions, notably for Kenyan exporters. Kenya has historically had strong trading links with Sudan, with exports expected to reach around KES 20 billion ($140 million) in 2022, according to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics.
Tea, medicines, edible oils, and manufactured items are among the most important exports.

Kenyan tea, one of the country's main exports, has proven particularly popular in Sudan's consumer market.

Sudan is one of the region's largest importers of Kenyan tea, and the ban threatens to disrupt trade flows and revenue streams for both exporters and dealers.