Chamber President Dr. Erick Rutto has encouraged investors from the Branding Association of Malaysia to tap into the rapidly expanding African market, describing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a transformative opportunity for global trade.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Malaysian delegation to the KNCCI headquarters, Dr. Rutto emphasized that Africa’s economy is poised for exponential growth, with intra-African trade projected to rise to approximately 52%. This surge would position the continent alongside major global economies such as the European Union and China, with a combined GDP of USD 16 trillion.

He urged the Malaysian investors to consider Kenya as their strategic entry point into the African market, citing the country’s superior connectivity, business-friendly environment, and central location within the continent. He further highlighted meat processing as a key area of opportunity for Kenyan businesses aiming to access the Malaysian market, given Kenya’s large livestock population.

The Malaysian delegation acknowledged Kenya’s strategic value, noting that the availability of direct 9-hour flights between the two countries significantly enhances the ease of doing business.

The visiting investors are in Kenya to explore avenues for trade and investment collaboration, and to establish commercial partnerships with local stakeholders. Their interests span across diverse sectors including textile and apparel, beverages, construction, hospitality, food processing, medical supplies, and finance.