China trade week opens in Kenya amid deepening economic ties
NAIROBI, June 5 (Xinhua) -- The fifth edition of China Trade Week Kenya opened in the Kenyan capital city of Nairobi on Wednesday as more than 500 exhibitors showcased high-end manufactured products from the Asian nation.
Eugene Wamalwa, Kenya's cabinet secretary for the Ministry of Devolution and ASAL opened the expo that is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors keen to purchase items ranging from textiles, electronic goods, home appliances to automotive parts.
"Kenya is a rising economy that is keen to strengthen bilateral trade with China through exhibitions as well as business to business forums," said Wamalwa.
"The China Trade Week presents a platform for us to exchange knowledge and ideas that can promote fruitful economic partnership," he added.
The first phase of the China Trade Week which will run from June 5 to 7 and will showcase products used in the construction sector, textiles, packaging materials, furniture and water treatment technologies.
Meanwhile, consumer goods, automotive parts, electrical appliances, IT solutions and agriculture machinery will be showcased during the second phase of China Trade Week to run from June 10 to 12.
Zhao Xiyuan, minister counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya said that regular exhibitions are key to promote Sino-Kenya bilateral trade that has been on a growth trajectory in the recent past.
David Wang, chairman of MIE Groups that organized this year's edition of China Trade Week said it will foster dialogue required to revitalize economic cooperation.
He said the fifth edition of China Trade Week will also feature high-level workshops where experts will discuss innovative ways to boost China-Kenya trade in line with the Belt and Road Initiative.
Zahoor Ahmed, vice president in charge of strategy and partnerships at MIE Groups said that Kenya is well placed to reap from the benefits of the Belt and Road Initiative that include enhanced trade, connectivity and cultural exchanges.