Kenya is eying to facilitate more investors from the Netherlands to set up operations in the country as part of an agreement reached between the two countries.
Through an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KenInvest and the Netherlands Business Hub Kenya (NLBH) signed in 2022, the two nations target to foster a conducive environment leveraging the one-stop shop which provides key government services under one roof.
“This facility embodies our commitment at KenInvest to streamlining the investment process and providing a seamless experience for foreign investors, such as our valued Dutch partners. We are proud to facilitate Dutch investments that contribute significantly to job creation and economic growth in Kenya, and we look forward to further strengthening this mutually beneficial relationship,” said John Mwendwa KenInvest Chief Executive Officer during a meeting with Dutch officials.
According to KenInvest, the Netherlands ranks among top 5 export markets for Kenya. The European Union member state is also among the top 5 sources of Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) to Kenya and is the biggest importer of Kenya’s goods in Europe.
Kenya, in turn, is the Netherlands’s most important trade partner in Eastern Africa, with a trade balance favoring Kenya.
Official data indicate that Kenya’s Dutch exports amounted to Ksh 91 billion while imports from the EU state amounted to Ksh 49 billion.
“The economic partnership between Kenya and the Netherlands continues to grow from strength to strength rooted in mutual trust, shared values, and a vision for sustainable prosperity. The Netherlands remains one of Kenya’s key trade and investment partners, and we invite more Dutch investors to explore the vast opportunities our country offers. Together, we can deepen our collaboration, drive innovation, and create lasting impact for both our nations,” added Reinette Klever, Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development.
The MoU outlines areas of cooperation such as joint policy and commercial advocacy, capacity-building programs, and the provision of market intelligence.
