🇰🇪 Kenya vs 🇦🇷 Argentina Tariffs — Import Duty Comparison (2026)

🇰🇪

Kenya

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementNone

Trade Volume$1.5B

Base Effective Rate10%

🇦🇷

Argentina

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementNone

Trade Volume$14B

Base Effective Rate10%

🇰🇪 Kenya Advantages

+Unique export categories: Tea, Coffee, Cut flowers

🇦🇷 Argentina Advantages

+Higher US trade volume ($14B vs $1.5B)
+Unique export categories: Soybean oil, Crude oil, Gold

When choosing between Kenya and Argentina as import sources, US businesses must weigh tariff rates, trade agreements, product availability, and supply chain logistics.

Both countries face the same base tariff rate of 10% on most goods entering the United States.

These countries have largely distinct export profiles to the United States, serving different market segments.

In terms of trade volume, Kenya accounts for approximately $1.5B in bilateral trade with the US, compared to Argentina's $14B.

Both countries are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff imposed on February 24, 2026, following the Supreme Court's ruling striking down IEEPA tariffs. This rate expires approximately July 24, 2026 unless Congress extends it.

Kenya's advantages include: Unique export categories: Tea, Coffee, Cut flowers. Argentina's advantages include: Higher US trade volume ($14B vs $1.5B); Unique export categories: Soybean oil, Crude oil, Gold.

With equivalent base tariff rates, the choice between Kenya and Argentina depends primarily on product-specific duties, shipping costs, lead times, and supply chain considerations rather than the base tariff rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has lower tariffs — Kenya or Argentina?

Both countries face the same base Section 122 tariff of 10%. The difference comes from product-specific duties, Section 301 (China only), and Section 232 (metals).

Should I switch sourcing from Kenya to Argentina?

The decision depends on more than tariff rates. Consider total landed cost (shipping, insurance, customs fees), lead times, quality standards, minimum order quantities, and supply chain reliability. With equivalent base rates, focus on non-tariff factors.

Do both Kenya and Argentina face the same Section 122 tariff?

Yes, both countries are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff imposed on February 24, 2026. This flat rate replaced the variable IEEPA tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court. It expires approximately July 24, 2026.

What products overlap between Kenya and Argentina exports to the US?

Both countries export various products to the US. Kenya has total bilateral trade of ~$1.5B while Argentina has ~$14B.