Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI) China Office in partnership with the China–Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Council (CAETPC), successfully hosted an Investor Attraction and Business Networking Session in Shanghai, China, engaging with over 70 Chinese companies eager to explore investment opportunities in Kenya’s dynamic market.
During the event, Fredrick Mukilya, Chief Representative of the KNCCI China Office, detailed Kenya unmatched economic potential, a gateway to Eastern and Central Africa and the third-largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa, recognized for its stable macroeconomic environment, transparent regulatory systems and strong financial markets.
In 2024, the manufacturing sector contributed 7.7% to Kenya GDP, reflecting a 2.4% growth from 2023 1.8%. This expansion was driven by rapid growth in textiles and apparel, valued at KES 57.5 billion (RMB 2.99 billion), leather and leather products at KES 6.2 billion (RMB 322.4 million) and increasing exports of agro-processed goods to Asia. Kenya agricultural exports to China are flourishing, with avocados worth KES 22.1 billion (RMB 1.2 billion), macadamia nuts at KES 7.8 billion (RMB 406 million), tea exports reaching KES 168.3 billion (RMB 8.8 billion), and cut flowers at KES 108.1 billion (RMB 5.62 billion). These achievements position Kenya as an agricultural powerhouse and a dependable export partner.
He highlighted Kenya’s leadership in green industrialization, where over 90% of electricity is from renewable sources—geothermal (44.2%), hydro (28.9%), wind (14.3%) and solar (3.7%), building a sustainable, low-carbon manufacturing base attractive to global investors. With a young, skilled workforce exceeding 20 million, competitive labor costs and top-tier logistics via Mombasa and Lamu ports, plus duty-free access to markets under AfCFTA and EPA agreements, Kenya presents a strategic, cost-effective platform for investors seeking access to Africa’s 1.4 billion consumers. He stressed that investing in Kenya means engaging with a nation where growth aligns with stability, innovation offers opportunities and partnerships transform potential into prosperity.
The CAETPC leadership reaffirmed its commitment to continue cooperating with KNCCI in engaging with Chinese investors through ongoing forums, matchmaking sessions, and high-level business visits aimed at deepening Sino–Kenyan cooperation.
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