East Africa

Kenya will add 10 more booths than last year at the annual industrial expo with China in Nairobi.

Organized by Afripeak Expo Kenya in collaboration with the Kenya Investment Authority and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), this year’s expo is expected to spotlight the dynamic transformation of the region’s industrial sector.

Gao Wei, managing director of AFRIPEAK Expo Kenya told journalists that booths will increase to 30 from 20.  This increase has allowed more local businesses to showcase their products on a global stage. He also highlighted that this expansion has offered enhanced exposure and created new opportunities for local industries to drive innovation and achieve growth.

“The Expo has grown into a premier platform for industrial innovation, partnerships, and exploring new opportunities in Kenya and the wider East African region,” he said.

He emphasised the significance of the expanded booth space, which aims to provide more local companies with the chance to gain international visibility.

This year’s expansion is seen as a major step forward in fostering local industry growth and innovation.

“We are optimizing the structure of the Expo to feature those who represent the best in industrial innovation and practices,” Gao Wei explained.

This effort is intended to improve the experience for both exhibitors and visitors, leading to more valuable business collaborations.

"These initiatives are designed to attract more professional and interested visitors, thereby facilitating stronger trade relations and economic ties between Kenya and other countries."

The Expo is positioned as a critical element in Kenya’s industrial strategy, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals to transform the country into a newly industrialized, middle-income economy.

“The enhancements introduced this year are meant to push the boundaries of what is possible, encouraging creative thinking and challenging the status quo,” he said.

The Expo, he added, is not just about celebrating current achievements but also about envisioning future possibilities for Kenya’s industrial sector.

Erick Rutto, President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), highlighted that Kenya’s economic relationship with China has strengthened significantly, with China now serving as Kenya's largest trading partner.

 “Trade Promotion Agreements have bolstered our economic ties with ChinaThese agreements facilitate trade, investment, and skill development through networking and exchange programs, reflecting our commitment to expanding economic cooperation,”  Rutto stated

He noted that in 2023, Kenya’s exports to China totaled US$227.69 million, while imports from China reached US$3.2 billion. Rutto pointed out that Kenya’s exports to China grew by 37% from 2020 to 2021, driven by increased demand for Kenyan products like ores, petroleum oils, and tea.

“Kenya’s key exports include fruits, vegetables, macadamia nuts, and coffee, while China remains a top exporter to Kenya, providing electronics, machinery, and textiles,” he added.

The KNCCI has been proactive in supporting the Expo since 2020, collaborating with Afripeak Expo Kenya to promote technology transfer and business development.

“Our efforts over the past six months have resulted in successful exports totaling approximately Ksh 300 million to China. “These exports span sectors including leather, skincare, coffee, and macadamia kernels,” Rutto revealed

Rutto also emphasized the various business opportunities available for traders from both nations.

“There are significant opportunities in agriculture, ICT, construction, and energy. “We are committed to welcoming Chinese companies to Kenya and promoting foreign direct investments,” he explained

Looking ahead, Rutto highlighted Kenya's strategic role as a gateway to Africa, urging Chinese businesses to take advantage of this position.

“We aim to bridge the trade gap by expanding and diversifying the range of products we export to China,” he concluded.

“Our goal is to enhance cooperation and support the African Continental Free Trade Area.” By NANCY WAINAINA, The Star