The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has reaffirmed its commitment to driving the country’s economic transformation through partnerships, youth-driven enterprise, and inclusive innovation.
This, as it encouraged its members to seize emerging opportunities in digital trade, forge cross-border alliances, and lead the charge in building a globally competitive business ecosystem.
Speaking during the EU-Kenya Business Forum 2025 in Nairobi, KNCCI President Eric Rutto underscored the urgency of aligning Kenya’s economic ambitions with modern trade realities.
With the European Union already serving as Kenya’s second-largest export destination and over 70 per cent of the country's population under 35, the Chamber highlighted the moment as both strategic and transformative.
“We applaud President William Ruto’s visionary declaration that digital infrastructure is as vital as roads and ports,” he said.
“At KNCCI, we stand ready to serve as the bridge between policy and enterprise to ensure SMEs, youth, and women-led businesses can thrive in this new digital landscape.”
The event, held under the theme ‘Digitalising Trade’, was attended by President William Ruto among other officials.
In his address, Ruto reiterated his call that Kenya is open and ready for business, urging the Kenya European Union Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) Council to explore innovative ways to address current and emerging barriers to unlock the vast potential of Kenya-EU trade.
“On our part, we are implementing pro-trade policies with the goal of building a competitive, resilient economy, strengthening mutually beneficial partnerships, and fostering inclusive wealth creation and generating opportunities,” he said.
The European Union Chamber, which aims to deepen Kenya-EU private sector collaboration launched during the event.
The Chamber, at the same time, called on policymakers to create enabling environments through simplified regulations, inclusive financing, and export-readiness support.
It also urged Kenyan businesses to boldly embrace digital value chains and capitalize on the EU’s $17 trillion market.
“Let us now lead, not follow, in creating a future where business is borderless, digital, and driven by dignity and opportunity for all,” the KNCCI President said.
He also reaffirmed the Chamber’s dedication to translating today’s dialogue into tomorrow’s opportunities.
