On 14th January, 2020 KNCCI team hosted 8 delegates from Guangzhou Nansha New Area of China led by Weng Shuwu, Director of policy Research, and Guangzhou Nansha Administration Committee of China Pilot Free Trade Zone where they deliberated on partnership areas geared towards providing a strategic working relationship that would enhance bilateral cooperation between Kenya and China.

Nansha is state level new zone; a pilot free trade zone; a demonstration zone for comprehensive cooperation between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao.

During the engagement, the Chamber president stated that the Belt and Road Initiative” (BRI) is an additional chapter in the history of relations between China and African countries especially Kenya. “The BRI is continuing to promote international trade between China and Kenya and that Kenya being the hub of East and Central Africa, it is the only way that China can penetrate it’s Market to Africa.” He added.

Chamber president urged the Nansha investors wishing to invest in Kenya take advantage of the Special Economic Zones, as they will offer optimal revenue outputs due to preferential treatment on matters such as licensing.

Adding his sentiments, Director of Special Economic Zones Mr. Eazhawa said by tapping into SEZs, investors will be assured of returns. “There are various tax benefits granted to companies operating in special economic zones, this will bring high return of investments,” added Mr Eazhawa.

Weng Shuwu, Director of Policy Research Office, Guangzhou Nansha, said that Nansha being the geographical center of the Great Bay Area and where Guangdong’s biggest pilot free trade zones locates, with no doubt, is one of the most livable and lovable place in the area for every dreamer.

The China Advanced Semiconductor Industry Innovation Alliance launched its Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area committee in Nansha district that reached a strategic  cooperation agreement with the administrative committee of Nansha Development Zone to establish an advanced semiconductor innovation center focused on the new energy vehicle industry with related companies.

Areas of Collaboration – Kenya

  • Big 4 Agenda
  • Blue Economy
  • ICT
  • Mining
  • Infrastructure
  • Special Economic Zone

Areas of Collaboration – Nansha

  • Shipping and Logistics
  • High-End Manufacturing
  • Sci-tech Innovation
  • Finance
  • Life Science and Healthcare

The two teams agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between KNCCI and other specific sectoral associations in Nansha to help achieve their mandate.

Angela Ndambuki, CEO assured the delegation of Chamber support going forward in matters related to business and investment.

Incoming and outgoing trade mission to Kenya and Nansha was proposed.