Kenyan manufacturers are expressing significant concern over increasing competition from foreign imports, primarily from Asia, which they warn could undermine local industries. This issue was highlighted at the 8th Kenya International Industrial Expo (KIIE) 2025 in Nairobi.

• Over 200 Chinese exhibitors and more than 6,000 trade visitors attended the expo.
• Akash Patel, Sales Manager at ABC Joint Silicone, noted that foreign firms benefit from economies of scale, making imports cheaper than local manufacturing.
• Kenyan businesses also face challenges from stringent licensing and certification requirements, increasing operational costs.