Kenyan businesses are optimistic about an opportunity to further explore global markets, attract investors, and enhance bilateral ties between Kenya and China in the upcoming edition of China Import and Export Fair, better known as the Canton Fair. The event will be held in Guangdong Province, China, mid-next month.
At a recent business conference in Nairobi, Zhou Zhencheng, Minister Counselor of the Economic Commercial Office of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, affirmed China’s commitment to fostering trade and investment with Kenya. he said the fair will provide a platform for Kenyan businesses to access high-quality goods, technologies, and expertise, which are essential for economic development and diversification goals.
Zhou urged participants to seize and maximise the opportunity presented by Canton Fair by engaging with experts, exploring new business perspectives, and leveraging the fair to promote mutual growth and create a bright future for both economies.
“China and Kenya have a deep and dynamic trade relationship, with China being one of Kenya’s largest trading partners. The Canton Fair provides a unique opportunity for Kenyan entrepreneurs to connect with leading Chinese manufacturers and innovators,” he stated.
He says participating in the fair will help businesses gain insights into industry trends, discover cutting-edge products, and enhance their competitive edge in the global market.
Floice Mukabana, CEO of the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEProBA), highlighted the significant opportunities the Chinese market presents for Kenyan goods, especially agricultural products like tea, coffee, and flowers. She noted that Kenya also offers China access to high-quality goods and serves as a strategic gateway to East Africa.
Mukabana mentioned that KEProBA aims to position Kenya as a top destination for Chinese tourists through joint branding initiatives and enhanced bilateral agreements to streamline market access for Kenyan exporters.
Pius Rotich, General Manager at the Kenya Investment Authority (KenInvest), added that the authority will leverage Canton Fair to attract Chinese investors, creating opportunities for them to invest in Kenya and promote economic and technological growth.
The Vice Chairman of the Nairobi Chapter of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Ronald Meru, has emphasised the chamber’s dedication to addressing trade imbalances and enhancing competitiveness to boost Kenya’s export capacity.
“At KNCCI, we believe that economic diplomacy is the key to sustainable trade growth. Our strategic engagement in China, especially at the Canton Fair, has driven significant economic transformation,” he stated.
Xu Jiansheng, Operations Director of the China Foreign Trade Centre Group, encouraged Kenyan businesses to take part in the Canton Fair, stressing that it connects them to global markets. He mentioned that the fair has recorded a business turnover exceeding 1.5 trillion U.S. dollars and welcomes over 10 million overseas buyers.
Rehema Ibrahim, Senior Country Manager for Kenya Airways (KQ), announced plans for a two-week flight schedule from Kenya to China, ensuring participants attending the Canton Fair have convenient access to the event.
“We are committed to ensuring you experience a smooth, efficient, and comfortable journey, allowing you to make the most of your travel time,” she said.
Vincent Muruba, General Manager of China Information and Culture Communication Kenya, expressed pride in the organisation’s ability to deliver comprehensive services that create a seamless and enriching experience for delegates.
“Thanks to our ongoing efforts and extensive promotion, the Canton Fair has become a household name among Kenyan businesses, offering unparalleled access to diverse Chinese products and serving as a vital destination for procurement and business development,” he said
