Kenya to host China trade expo

Kenya is set to host a China Trade Week Expo from June 29 to July 1, which is expected to draw hundreds of Chinese companies, the organizer said on Wednesday.

David Wang, managing director of the organizer MIE Events, told a media briefing in Nairobi that over 400 Chinese companies will showcase their products from diverse sectors such as construction, energy, furniture and electronics during the expo.

"Over the three-day event we are expecting over 20,000 visitors from the East Africa region to attend the function," Wang said.

"We are targeting to conclude business deals worth over 60 million U.S. dollars to be signed between the Chinese and the East African business community," he said.

China is now one of the largest trading partners and source of foreign direct investment into Kenya.

Wang said that Chinese investors were seeking to increase Sino-Africa commercial ties through establishing joint ventures in Africa.

"These will provide Africans with employment opportunities especially in the manufacturing sector," he said.

He said trade opportunities between China and Africa were often hindered due to the long distances. "But the expo will provide an opportunity for East African traders to meet many Chinese producers within a short period of time," he said. Endit