Kenya Joins China Import Expo to Boost Agricultural Exports

Kenya is participating in the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai from November 5 to 10, 2026. The Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency is coordinating the effort to increase exports of flagship agricultural products, including tea, coffee, macadamia nuts, avocados, and cut flowers.

CEO Floice Mukabana described the expo as a strategic platform for Kenyan start-ups and small-to-medium enterprises to showcase certified, high-value goods and establish relationships with Chinese importers and e-commerce operators. The Kenyan pavilion will feature tea tastings, coffee sampling, and a flower wall to demonstrate product quality. Beyond agriculture, the government is encouraging the exhibition of local artifacts, clothing, and footwear.

This initiative leverages a zero-tariff policy that took effect on May 1, which has already increased shipments of Kenyan agricultural goods to China. The event also allows exporters to discuss phytosanitary requirements and compliance directly with Chinese regulators. Additionally, Kenya seeks to facilitate the transfer of emerging technologies, specifically artificial-intelligence tools designed to streamline supply-chain logistics.