To mark Chinese New Year 2023 celebrations which is also referred to as the “Lunar New Year” The Canton Chamber of Commerce in Kenya organized the Guangdong Investment and Business environment conference that took place on the evening of Friday 20th January at the Nairobi Serena Hotel. The main aim of the business conference was to promote investment and business opportunities in Guangdong and also to boost the business relationship between Kenya and China .

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI) was represented by the Chamber President Mr.Richard Ngatia who in his remarks stated that Kenya and China have a long -standing partnership in trade and investment .China is one of Kenya’s major trading partners and  we are committed to strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries, there is great potential for increased collaboration between the two countries, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, and manufacturing, real estate, telecommunications, and energy.

In accordance to the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles on open economy, Mr. Ngatia encouraged Chinese Companies  to invest in Kenya , promote knowledge transfer and also to consider utilizing the Kenyan Local Human Capital in the business Ecosystem.

He appreciated the Investments and employment opportunities created by key Chinese Companies in the country especially; Camco Equipment, Huawei Technologies, Zhongxing Construction Company, Twyford Ceramics and many others .

KNCCI encourages local innovators and suppliers to partner with Chinese companies established in Kenya for supply chain integration and value addition.

The Chamber President emphasized on the importance of understanding the standards for transparency and avoid bureaucratic barriers (on importation and exportation) to enhance Kenya -China bilateral trade development.

KNCCI is very delighted to have been allocated office space in Hunan province that will help facilitate trade and would be very happy to have more office space in Guangdong Province to facilitate technical assistance and trade that will create new opportunities for trade and investment, we believe that our collaboration can help to:

  • Facilitate business-to-business interactions and partnerships between Kenyan and Chinese companies
  • Provide support and assistance to companies interested in exploring business opportunities in Kenya and China
  • Facilitate the exchange of information and expertise on key issues related to trade and investment.

Mr.Ngatia concluded by appreciating the KNCCI-Kiambu county leadership comprising of the chairperson Mr.Sam Kairu and vice chairperson Mr.Richard Ndungu for being at the forefront in creating market linkages for the SMEs in the fresh produce value chain especially the export of avocados.

The private sector and public sector are both committed to enhancing business and boosting the country’s economy.

Diamond Trust Bank who are platinum members of KNCCI and being the major partners on the forum were represented by their Director Dr.Kennedy Nyakomitta who in his remarks appreciated KNCCI for the tremendous support in growing their business since inception into the membership.

In attendance were; KNCCI Ag CEO  Mr.Patrick Nyangweso ,Leaders of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, leaders of provincial business associations in Kenya, Chinese entrepreneurs in Kenya, Kenya Investment Authority, Kenya Enterprise Council, Members of KNCCI and entrepreneurial representatives.