Kenyan business leaders are pressing into China’s consumer market at the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai, pointing to early trade gains under a new zero-tariff policy for African nations that took effect on May 1, 2026.
Export Growth and Tariff Shifts at the Shanghai Expo
At the head of a group comprising roughly 40 Kenyan businesspeople and exporters, Eric Rutto, president of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), characterized the exhibition as a crucial avenue for linking Kenyan enterprises to the massive Chinese consumer base. Preliminary trade data collected by the chamber points to an estimated 8 to 10 percent increase in trade volumes since the duty-free regime launched, though Rutto noted that a longer assessment period remains necessary to measure the full impact.
The policy change eliminates previous duties, such as a 4 percent import tariff that Kenyan roses formerly faced in China. Rutto said that removing that 4 percent tariff effectively improves the margin that exporters can earn,
adding that it also makes us more competitive against other Asian countries that are geographically closer to China.
Kenya will leverage its participation in the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE), to be held in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10, to boost exports of flagship agricultural products to the Chinese market, said Floice Mukabana, a senior Kenyan official said.… pic.twitter.com/cBcCQfKcPX
Dennis Mwirigi Murithi, chairman of the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA), reported strong gains across key agricultural sectors. Coffee exports increased by 241 percent and avocado exports by 86 percent. Beyond agriculture, Murithi said the delegation is investigating potential opportunities for textile and manufacturing industries to diversify shipments.
Floriculture Sector Targets Chinese Buyers
Kenyan flower breeders and growers are utilizing the Shanghai trade event to expand their footprint. According to Kenyan authorities, the country exported around 800 million U.S. dollars’ worth of cut flowers globally in 2025, with less than 5 percent going to China.
From Kenyan tea to Afghan carpets, saffron and rose-based perfume, businesses are looking to the ninth China International Import Expo in Shanghai to expand their presence in the Chinese market and explore new opportunities for trade cooperation. #CIIE #China #Kenya #Afghanistan… pic.twitter.com/A9a9qBzVNP
At United Selections, a flower breeding company situated in Kenya’s Nakuru County, staff report high demand for specific rose varieties. Nathan Joseck, assistant crop manager at United Selections, stated that one of our varieties that is doing well in China is Jumilia. Everyone is going for it. Our agent is on the ground and can link up with growers in China.
Fidelis Mwendwa, marketing assistant at United Selections, emphasized that local producers anticipate a spike in orders and lower freight expenses under the trade agreement. Definitely, the zero tariff policy will increase supply. It has created a favorable environment for breeders and even the production side,
Mwendwa said.
Kenya’s participation at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai is underway with Embassy representatives-the HOC &Trade Attaché-attending the opening ceremony&joining other stakeholders in celebrating Kenya’s participation as this year’s Theme Country @MakeItKenya pic.twitter.com/IOfkJ41clB
Exporters Establish Direct Trade Routes to Boost Volume
To support the expected surge in trade volumes, KEPROBA and affiliated horticulture exporters are establishing direct trade linkages. Floice Mukabana, chief executive officer of KEPROBA, noted that the agency set up a flower wall at the expo, in a bid to woo more Chinese importers.
Dennis Mwirigi, serving as both chairman of KEPROBA and director at Flamingo Horticulture Kenya Limited, explained that growers are evaluating both direct air cargo and sea-and-rail freight options. Exporters plan to utilize customs facilitation inside the Changsha zone of the China (Hunan) Pilot Free Trade Zone to engage Chinese importers with greater directness.
Feel Kenya in the 9th China International Import Expo, Shanghai~ pic.twitter.com/zTYcSJkYcJ
For us, taking part in the CIIE is a very important opportunity,
Mwirigi said. On one hand it lets Chinese consumers see what Kenya can offer, and on the other it helps Kenyan producers understand what the Chinese market needs.