Kenya, China seek deeper industrial ties as Nairobi expo opens

The three-day event, running from September 3 to 5 at the Sarit Expo Centre, brings together manufacturers, investors and technology companies from Kenya, China and other international markets.

The exhibition covers manufacturing, machinery, construction, energy, electronics, healthcare, hardware and industrial technology.

The expo comes as Kenya seeks to move beyond traditional trade in finished goods and attract investment that can expand domestic production and create jobs.

Afripeak Expo Kenya Managing Director Gao Wei said the event had evolved from a conventional trade exhibition into a platform for industrial cooperation, investment and technology exchange.

“This year we are expecting more participation of industrial equipment and laser-processing companies which reflects the growing importance of technology and manufacturing cooperation,” Gao said.

He said the exhibition was increasingly focused on encouraging Chinese companies to consider establishing manufacturing and assembly operations in Kenya rather than treating the country solely as an export market.

Gao said trade should provide a foundation for deeper economic cooperation through investment, technology transfer and skills development.

“Selling one container of goods is a transaction. Building a partnership, transferring a technology, assembling or producing here, training local technicians and creating jobs, that is cooperation, and that is what lasts,” he said.

A major feature of this year’s expo is the first organised participation of a business delegation from Guangdong Province, one of China’s major manufacturing and trade centres.

The delegation is expected to connect Kenyan businesses with Chinese manufacturers and create opportunities in sourcing, distribution, manufacturing and investment.

The event also has a larger presence of companies specialising in laser engraving, laser cutting and industrial processing equipment.

These technologies have applications in furniture manufacturing, metal fabrication, construction, packaging and advertising, offering local enterprises access to modern production equipment.

Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) National Director Joseph Mutavi said the expo provides an avenue for manufacturers, investors, buyers and suppliers to establish partnerships, access markets and identify investment opportunities.

“The Kenya International Industrial Expo is more than a showcase of products and technology; it is a platform for business growth, innovation and industrial transformation,” Mutavi said.