Small business operating within Kenya’s fashion industry have been urged to leverage partnership with Chinese firms in order to access the wider international market.
Speaking during the the 2026 East Africa Fashion Life Show, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) President Dr Erick Rutto said the exhibition would give Kenyan businesses an opportunity to showcase their products, establish international connections and identify new markets.
“The Fashion Life Show creates a valuable meeting point for Kenyan enterprises and international buyers, manufacturers, distributors and investors,” said Rutto.
Dr Rutto urged businesses in sectors such as manufacturing, textiles, apparel, fashion, cosmetics, home décor and consumer goods to use the exhibition to build international relationships and explore opportunities for growth and exports.
KNCCI National Director Ken Onditi said stronger business partnerships are essential in helping local enterprises access new markets and compete in an increasingly competitive global economy.
Onditi said bringing manufacturers, exporters, distributors, investors and buyers together under one platform could create opportunities for business-to-business engagement, technology transfer and access to regional and international markets.
“Partnerships such as this are instrumental in unlocking new markets for Kenyan enterprises,” he added.
The exhibition is also backed as an inddicator to the growing commercial relationship between Kenya, China and the wider East African region, providing businesses with an opportunity to explore partnerships beyond the traditional buyer-seller relationship.
Afripeak Expo Kenya Managing Director Gao Wei said the expansion of the exhibition reflected growing demand for direct engagement between African buyers and international manufacturers.
“The growth of the Fashion Life Show reflects a clear demand from businesses for direct and meaningful engagement with manufacturers, suppliers and buyers,” said Gao.
Among products being showcased include textiles and apparel to footwear, fashion accessories, beauty products, household goods, electronics, home appliances, lighting and packaging solutions.
