Chinese Investors in Kenya Speak Amid China Square Row
Kenya China Chamber of Commerce (KCCC) has expressed fears following the recent remarks by Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria that led to the indefinite closure of China Square, a retail store located at Unicity Mall on Thika Road.
The group called for a healthy environment to do business, stressing that Chinese investors are not in Kenya to compete with Kenyan traders, but rather to develop their economies and contribute to the country’s growth and development by creating jobs and paying taxes.
KCCC underscored China Square’s significant contributions to the local economy, including job creation and increased foot traffic to neighboring businesses.
It argued that the proprietor of China Square followed all necessary legal procedures before establishing the business and that the Kenyan government gave his business plan a green light.
“We feel discriminated and don’t sit well with the remarks of the Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry to Kenyatta University Vice Chancellor to buy out the lease for China Square at the Unicity Mall, which were uttered without any further consultations from all parties involved and not considering the repercussions of such statements which are contrary to Kenya’s investment promotion and protection regime that has always been equitable, non-arbitrary and non-discriminatory,” the chamber of commerce noted.
It further took issue with the Vice Chairperson of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) Wambui Nyutu, whom it accused of making ‘derogatory remarks’ about the Chinese community on social media. KCCC said such comments were irresponsible and divisive, and could incite hatred and violence against Chinese nationals.
“We are therefore requesting the Government of Kenya for a healthy environment to enable us do business and trade in peace and contribute to Kenya’s growth and development through employment creation and contribution to Kenya’s tax revenue. The Chinese Nationals are open to working and collaborating with Kenyan traders to lower the cost of living for Kenyans. Our goal is not to compete rather, to develop our economies,” the statement read.
It reiterated that it respects Kenyan traders’ rights to express their opinions, but urged them not to be misled by false information or propaganda against China Square. The group also urged both parties to engage in dialogue and work together to find solutions that benefit both countries.