NCBA Boosts SME Growth with China Trade Mission
NCBA Boosts SME Growth with China Trade Mission
Empowering Businesses Through Global Exposure
NCBA https://ke.ncbagroup.com/ has flagged off 110 SME and Commercial Banking customers for its 2025 China Trade Mission.
The 12-day trip, running from October 12 to 23, 2025, will take participants through Shanghai, Yiwu, and Guangzhou, culminating at the 138th Canton Fair.
The trade mission offers a hands-on opportunity for entrepreneurs to visit trading facilities, connect with industry leaders, and explore China’s major business hubs. It combines business immersion with cultural exchange, giving participants practical insights and global exposure that can strengthen their enterprises.
Strengthening Kenya–China Trade Relations
This year’s delegation includes business owners from sectors such as electronics, telecommunications, manufacturing, construction, real estate, energy, pharmaceuticals, textiles, beauty, agribusiness, and food security.
Trade between Kenya and China has long been characterized by an import surplus for Kenya. In the first half of 2025, Kenya imported goods worth KSh 304.65 billion from China.
By comparison, China’s exports to Kenya stood at $4.66 billion in 2023, while Kenya exported just $221 million worth of goods. These figures highlight the strategic importance of China for Kenyan businesses seeking reliable supply chains and manufacturing partnerships.
NCBA Boosts SME Growth with China Trade Mission
Expanding Market Reach and Supply Chains
Speaking during the send-off, NCBA Group Director for Retail Banking, Dennis Njau, said the initiative underscores the bank’s commitment to enabling clients’ global growth.
The mission provides access to international markets and suppliers, helping businesses diversify and expand their operations.
China remains one of Kenya’s largest trade partners, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
For local entrepreneurs, engaging directly with Chinese producers opens doors to new products, technology transfer, and competitive pricing, ultimately strengthening Kenya’s industrial base.
Trade, Learning, and Cultural Exchange
During the trip, participants will engage with Chinese business associations and visit manufacturing hubs, logistics centers, and retail facilities.
The itinerary also includes exposure to wholesale markets in Guangzhou and Foshan, factory visits, and participation in the world-renowned Canton Fair, a key opportunity for sourcing, networking, and exploring new market trends.
Beyond business, the mission offers cultural experiences and sightseeing activities, promoting cross-cultural understanding and partnerships.
Reinforcing NCBA’s Role in Business Growth
The China Trade Mission is part of NCBA’s broader strategy to empower SMEs through funding, networking, and international exposure.
By creating access to global supply chains, the bank helps clients build resilience and competitiveness in a fast-changing market.
This program adds to NCBA’s ongoing SME initiatives, including capacity-building workshops, financing programs, and business networking forums.
Through these efforts, NCBA continues to position itself as a trusted partner for entrepreneurs pursuing growth and sustainability beyond borders.
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