Following an engagement that the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI) had with the High Commission of Malaysia Trade Section- MATRADE in April 2022.This morning the KNCCI leadership led by the Chamber President Mr.Richard Ngatia hosted a delegation of 15 members from Malaysia drawn from 10 companies in the sectors of; manufacturing ,pharmaceuticals ,construction ,cosmetics, trading and frozen foods. The Malaysia delegation was led by the Deputy President, Bumiputera Manufacturers& Services Industry Association of Malaysia Haji Rosli Abd Shukor

Mr.Ngatia took the delegation through KNCCl’s role paying attention to three pillows ;SME development by providing opportunities for SMEs to grow their businesses ,Trade Facilitation by offering the export document which is the Certificate of Origin and advocacy through the government by negotiating for favorable policies.

There is a large trade deficit between the two countries as at 2020 where Kenya exported goods worth 17.89(USD) million and imported goods worth 414(USD) million. The Chamber President advised the delegation to take advantage of the numerous investment opportunities focusing on the government’s Big 4 Agenda .

A few members and committee chairpersons who were present were also given the opportunity to address the delegation based on various sectors of interest. Ms.Mary Matu ,Managing Director Angelica Medical Supplies stated that the healthcare system in Kenya is  vibrant and collaboration between the two countries will bridge the  any trade gap.

Mr.Rama Madiba Chairman KNCCI ICT committee noted that Malaysia is diverse in technological matters and Kenya can borrow from  Malaysia Economic Development Council (MAPEM) to enhance digitization of business. He also noted that the Kenyan youth are good at software development which can be a plus for both countries.

Ms. Nancy Muthoni, the Vice Chair Women In Business Committee encouraged the delegation to invest in Kenya especially in the construction sector putting into consideration that Malaysia has unique and affordable building techniques. She also added that the Women In Business members would be willing to partner with Beauty and cosmetics sector to have a variety in both markets.

Mr. Muchiri Mungai Director in charge of the Youth in his remarks stated that the Kenyan youth contribute to a large population in Kenya especially in the tertiary institutions. He urged the business delegation to take advantage of that and invest in the housing sector by providing accommodation to the youth in the institutions. He also noted that the youth contribute majorly to the start-up ecosystem which is a backbone of the economy of Kenya.

The Chamber 2nd Vice President Ms. Fatma Elmaawy appreciated the delegation for visiting KNCCI and she noted that the two countries will balance the trade by collaborating in various aspects such as improving exports of fresh produce and solving the logistics issue between the two countries.

The head of delegation from Malaysia urged the Kenyan government and the business community to explore various opportunities that will bridge the trade gap between the two countries. He stated that it would be ideal to have direct flights from Kenya to Malaysia to facilitate movement of business people and goods between the two countries. He urged the KNCCI leadership through the Kenyan government to review the trade tariff which is high at the moment hindering trade.

All members are encouraged to visit the Malaysian booth during the 23rd Kenya International Trade Exhibition (KITE) 2022 that will take place at the Sarit Expo Centre from 9th June , 2022  to 11th  June , 2022.

Also in attendance were KNCCI the Upper Eastern Director Jacob Godana, KNCCI Trans-Nzoia County Chairman Mr. Martin Waliaula and the Chief Operating Officer Mr. Patrick Nyangweso