Kenya and China have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening trade relations through strategic initiatives aimed at fostering mutual economic growth. This was highlighted during a recent meeting between Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan and Kenya’s Trade and Investments Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui.
Kinyanjui underscored China’s role as a key trade partner and revealed ongoing discussions to expand market opportunities for Kenyan traders and products in China. Among the key areas of focus is increasing cargo flights to China to facilitate the export of fresh produce.
“We are working on bridging the trade gap, considering that Kenya currently imports goods worth USD 3.6 billion from China while exports stand at USD 300 million,” Kinyanjui noted.
Ambassador Guo emphasised Kenya’s attractiveness as an investment destination, stating that efforts will be made to encourage Chinese investment in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals and automotive manufacturing within Kenya’s Special Economic Zones.
“We discussed investment opportunities, industrial cooperation, and enhancing trade partnerships to drive economic growth,” she said.
E-commerce is also emerging as a critical area for collaboration, providing new avenues for business transactions and improved market access between the two countries.
China has maintained its position as Africa’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, with significant involvement in infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing. The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) continues to play a vital role in strengthening trade partnerships, with the latest summit in Beijing focusing on market access, balanced trade, and value addition—key areas for enhancing economic cooperation between China and African nations, including Kenya.