Kenya: China, Kenya Private Sectors Strengthen Trade Ties

China remains its position as Kenya’s primary import source, with the country importing goods valued at Sh452.6 billion last year, an increase from Sh441.4 billion in 2021, as reported by the Kenya Economic Survey.

Jason Hsu, a Chinese, participated in this year’s China Trade Week (CTW) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi. Hsu stated that Kenya is a key market for the company’s expansion into Africa.

“We are seeing a huge demand in the Kenyan market and we intend to cement our position in this market,” Hsu said during our interview.

Juliet Zheng, export manager at Hebei Sanfeng Abrasives Company Limited is also positive about the Kenyan market, where the company has for the past two weeks pitched a tent seeking to connect with local businesses and companies.

The company which mainly deals in cutting and grinding wheels mainly targets the construction sector, which is among the key drivers of the country’s economy.

The steel and metal sector is also a major consumer of the company’s products.

“The Kenyan market is big. While we are introducing products for the first time, we are very positive going by the already existing strong relationship with Kenya,” Zheng said.

They were part of the 44 exhibitors at this year’s China Trade Week, where the annual event played a significant role as a catalyst for business-to-business, business-to-consumer, and business-to-government engagements.

This is with an expanded portfolio which includes the Africa Build Show, Africa Food Show, Africa Technology Show, Africa Security Show, and the Africa eDigital Connect Summit.

The event witnessed the convergence of global industry leaders, diplomats, and entrepreneurs for three days of impactful discussions and strategic collaborations.

Edwin Masivo, GEx Country Director for Kenya, highlighted that the country serves as a strategic gateway for trade and investment in East Africa.

 “CTW has been a game-changer. There are incredible opportunities in construction, agriculture, food, and technology,” Masivo noted.

Zahoor Ahmed, vice president of strategy and partnerships at MIE Groups said: “MIE Group remains dedicated as a driver of Foreign Direct Investments from source markets in Asia and the Gulf Cooperation Council with a focus on Africa.”

Kenya is aiming for tourism growth, with the Chinese market being one of its targets