The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) is delighted to announce the official operationalization of our new KNCCI China Branch Office, located in Changsha, China. In celebration of this momentous occasion, KNCCI had a Flag-Off Breakfast ceremony this morning at the Panafric Sarova Hotel in Nairobi.

China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner for 14 consecutive years. In 2021, China has also extended a zero tariff  treatment to 98% tax items for products to China which promote exports.

This expansion marks a significant milestone in our KNCCI’s history and noting our commitment to fostering stronger trade and investment ties between Kenya and China. The newly established China Branch Office will play a pivotal role in promoting collaboration, facilitating business partnerships, and displaying Kenyan products and services in the vibrant Chinese market, said the KNCCI CEO Mr. Patrick Nyangweso. He also noted that KNCCI is eying to have more branches in Guangdong, Sharjah and Ghana

Chief Representative for KNCCI China Branch, Mr. Fredrick Mukilya in his remarks noted that the office would play a critical function in facilitating trade and investment, attract more investment, promote visibility and awareness of Kenyan products and also protection of businesses through arbitration. Setting up of the office will also give businesses confidence to work with China

“KNCCI’s expansion into China is a strategic move aimed at advancing economic cooperation between Kenya and one of the world’s largest economies,” said Dr. Erick Rutto, The Chamber President. “We are confident that our presence in China will open up new opportunities for Kenyan businesses and entrepreneurs and contribute to the growth of our nation’s economy.”

The new office will enable KNCCI to identify business opportunities, particularly in the export of meat and meat products, a sector that remains largely untapped.

Mr. Zhang Yijun, Minister Counsellor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, congratulated KNCCI on this significant achievement and affirmed the embassy’s dedication to enhancing trade between the two nations.

During the event, Ms. Caroline Gathoni, CEO of Laskia Ventures Ltd, encouraged attendees to capitalize on the office, highlighting the substantial demand for Kenyan products, especially in the sisal and leather industry.

KNCCI expressed its gratitude to DTB bank for taking a prominent role in sponsoring the KNCCI China Branch, recognizing the bank’s dedicated China desk, which bridges the language barrier between businesses. The bank also plays a pivotal role as a financial partner, promoting export and import finances.

KNCCI also extended its appreciation to the Government of China for providing the office space, expressing their eagerness to enhance and promote Kenyan culture and tourism through this new establishment.