NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 13 — National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for a shift in Kenya-China economic relations towards local manufacturing, technology transfer and expanded export opportunities as Kenya seeks to address a trade imbalance heavily tilted in China’s favour.

📻 Breaking It Down

Wetang’ula said Kenya must leverage its longstanding partnership with China to develop domestic industries, add value to agricultural produce and create jobs rather than rely predominantly on imported goods.

Speaking at the 2026 Legislators Forum for Friendly Exchanges in China, the Speaker said stronger bilateral cooperation should translate into tangible economic benefits, particularly for young people seeking employment and businesses looking to expand production.

The scale of the challenge is reflected in the trade figures he cited.

📌 What You Need to Know

Kenya imported goods worth approximately US$5.19 billion from China in 2025, compared with exports valued at just US$130.8 million.

The figures point to a substantial imbalance in merchandise trade, with Kenya purchasing far more from China than it sells to the Asian economy.

“We need to boost local manufacturing, add value to our agricultural products and help more Kenyan goods access the Chinese market,” Wetang’ula said.

He identified trade, investment, technology transfer and industrial development as priority areas for cooperation, arguing that stronger economic links should support domestic production and improve livelihoods.

Kenya and China have collaborated on major infrastructure projects, including the Standard Gauge Railway, Nairobi Expressway and Lamu Port. Wetang’ula cited the projects as examples of the partnership, while calling for greater emphasis on industrial growth and opportunities for Kenyan producers.

The Speaker also highlighted cooperation in agriculture, clean energy and technical skills development as areas with potential to expand economic opportunities.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya