CEO of Haier Kenya Paul Xie Haiwei./HANDOUT
Chinese home appliance giant Haier has announced plans to begin local assembly operations in Kenya starting next year as part of a broader strategy to deepen its presence in East Africa and create local job opportunities.
Speaking during the Haier Dealers Summit held in Nairobi, Haier’s East Africa Regional Manager, Leon Liu Chi, said that Kenya is strategic in the company’s African expansion.
“Kenya is a very important market for us. It’s a gateway to East Africa, and we are committed to investing in this market not just with our products but also with local operations,” he said.
Leon noted that despite being a relatively new entrant in the Kenyan market compared to other global brands, Haier is confident in its ability to compete through a commitment to quality, innovation, and after-sales service.
“Even though we came into the market later than others, we are not too late,” Leon remarked. “We are focused on catching up and serving Kenyan consumers with sincerity, strong technology, and durable products.”
Currently, Haier offers a wide range of appliances in Kenya, including refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, cookers, TVs, and water heaters.
The company is especially promoting its inverter freezers and energy-efficient washing machines, designed with technologies aimed at reducing energy consumption and improving user convenience.
CEO of Haier Kenya Paul Xie Haiwei confirmed that the company is working towards setting up assembly operations in Kenya in 2026, focusing initially on products such as cookers, microwaves, and fans.
“This initiative will not only improve product availability and customization for the local market but also create more job opportunities for Kenyans. It’s a step forward in strengthening our commitment to the Kenyan economy,” said Haiwei.
Haier’s best-performing products in Kenya so far include TVs, refrigerators, freezers, and washing machines.
Due to Nairobi’s moderate climate, the demand for air conditioners remains relatively low compared to hotter cities like Dar es Salaam.
However, Leon sees potential for growth in commercial air conditioning systems, especially with the increase in infrastructure projects and Chinese investment in the region.
As Kenya continues to develop its manufacturing and infrastructure sectors, Haier’s planned local assembly operations signal a strong vote of confidence in the country’s economic potential and a significant shift toward local value addition in the electronics and appliance industry.
