What’s holding back the UK-EAC Brexit trade deal?

The ongoing trade negotiations between the East African Community (EAC) and the United Kingdom have hit a roadblock, jeopardizing Kenya's multimillion-dollar trade with Britain. With the deadline for a collective agreement looming on the 31st of December, the failure to make substantial progress has put the future of the trade deal in jeopardy. Despite reports suggesting that the deal is almost ready to be signed, disagreements among EAC member states have stalled the process. Ted Kaberuka, an Economic Analyst, shed light on the challenges facing the negotiations during a recent interview. According to Kaberuka, the existing trade agreements between the UK and some EAC countries have caused concerns among other members who fear losing out on the deal. This has led to delays in reaching a consensus among all parties, as countries prioritize their individual interests over the collective goals of the EAC. Kenya, in a bid to secure its trade interests, has opted to pursue independent negotiations with the UK, further complicating the situation. The stakes are high for both sides, as the impact of a failed trade deal would be significant amidst the financial crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. African countries, including Kenya, heavily rely on exports to the UK, particularly in the agricultural sector. Failure to secure a trade agreement would result in substantial economic losses for both parties. As the deadline approaches, stakeholders are urged to accelerate the negotiations and prioritize the mutual benefits of the trade deal. The potential economic repercussions of a collapsed agreement cannot be understated, with billions of euros or pounds at stake. It is imperative for all parties involved to overcome their differences and reach a consensus to ensure a prosperous future for UK-EAC trade relations.