The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Investment (KNCCI) President Dr. Erick Rutto accompanied by National Directors Ken Onditi, John Shimaka and CEO Ahmed Farah joined Hon. Salim Mvurya, Ag. Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Investments, Trade & Industry, alongside PS Abubakar for Investment Promotion, PS Dr. SingOei for Foreign Affairs, Japanese delegation led by H.E. Fujii Hisayuki, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, H.E. Hiroshi Matsuura, Ambassador of Japan to Kenya, H E. Moi Lemoshira Ambassador of Kenya to Japan at the Kenya Japan Business Forum held at the Serena, Nairobi.

Kenya-Japan Business Forum serves as a strategic platform to address trade and investment opportunities and trade -related challenges. It also highlights the diverse opportunities available for businesses and investors looking to establish or expand their footprint in both countries.  Ultimately, this forum is aimed to create jobs, introduce modern technology, increase exports and investments which in turn will generate foreign direct investment.

Dr. Erick Rutto spoke on the numerous and untapped potential in various sectors and reaffirmed the KNCCI’s commitment to facilitating and supporting investors and businesses from both countries to access the markets in Africa under AfCFTA and Japan.

He said that the initiative is vital for industrial investment efforts, and a significant effort to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

“Kenya and Japan share a long-standing relationship, particularly in industrial and road development projects,” he explained, underlining that Japan remains a key development partner.

Dr. Rutto equally invited the businesses in the forum to participate in the upcoming WCF Summit 2025 scheduled for April 9-11 at KICC, Nairobi.

A delegation of 31 Japanese investment companies is visiting the country to explore opportunities in agriculture, health, trade, manufacturing, logistics, etc. The companies engaged with 100 Kenya businesses to explore and exchange knowledge, and collaborate on joint business ventures. This will boost the local economy and create employment opportunities.

Kenya imports products such as vehicles, electronic, pharmaceuticals while exporting products such as tea, coffee, macadamia.  KNCCI President reiterated that Kenya is keen on increasing local production of spare parts and moving from exporting raw materials to finished products.

The forum today was instrumental in bringing together Kenya and Japanese policymakers, business leaders, investors and key stakeholders.  It has provided a platform for engaging in comprehensive dialogues on various sectors for future growth the insights gained and connections made during this event will undoubtedly shape our future endeavors in the business and investment spaces.