East African Businesses Seek Bigger Share of China Trade

Nairobi, Kenya – In October, over a hundred businesses from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda will venture into China to broaden their horizons in the country's market. As part of this journey, they will take part in NCBA's China Market Linkage & Business Exposure Programme from October 13 to 24, with stops in Beijing and Guangzhou.

The initiative aims to showcase manufacturers, suppliers, and industrial sites to participants while also scouting for technology collaborations, supply-chain ties, and potential export opportunities.

Dennis Njau, NCBA Group Director of Retail Banking, emphasized the importance of more than just finances for businesses in today's interconnected world. According to him, firms require access to knowledge, technology, markets, networks, and the right partnerships to thrive. The programme will allow East African businesses to engage with a highly dynamic trading ecosystem, opening doors to tangible business growth and enduring relationships.

The delegation will also attend the Canton Fair in Guangzhou, an essential marketplace where they can connect with potential suppliers and buyers across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, electronics, construction, automotive, renewable energy, and technology. Traditionally, East African companies have relied on importing goods from China, with little to no exports to the Asian giant.

This program comes in the wake of regional governments striving to boost exports and attract investment and technology from China.

In Kenya, the government has been fostering stronger ties with China through the Kenya-China Early Harvest Agreement, which offers preferential access for eligible Kenyan exports. During the 12-day program, the participating firms will delve into international trade, logistics, sourcing, and market entry processes. Moreover, NCBA will offer participating companies access to trade finance, working capital, foreign exchange, and other banking services to help them capitalize on the opportunities they discover during the visit.