Kenya is seeking to attract Chinese investors to establish manufacturing plants in its special economic zones as part of its push to boost exports, according to Kenneth Chelule, acting CEO of the Kenya Special Economic Zones Authority. Speaking in Nairobi, Chelule said the country is targeting Chinese investors in the electronics, textiles, pharmaceutical, and medical devices, as well as the lift and escalator sectors.

He said that the government is offering Chinese investors a value proposition that Kenya is the premier investment destination for foreign investors in Africa. The aim is to rely on modern technology from Chinese industrialists to manufacture globally competitive products.

Kenya has signed several preferential trade agreements with major trading blocs and countries, including the European Union, Britain, and the United States, providing lucrative markets for products made in the country. The hope is that Chinese manufacturers will help Kenya diversify its exports and move away from agricultural products.