Kenya and China are keen to strengthen their ties by expanding their food economy, with cuisine emerging as a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, but also for trade and inclusive growth.
Addressing the 15th International Chinese Catering Development Forum, hosted by the Xinhua News Agency in Nairobi, Minister Counsellor Zhang Zhizhong of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya highlighted the significant economic implications of the global journey of Chinese cuisine.
“The internationalization of Chinese food not only promotes standardization and brand building, but also boosts the export of Chinese agricultural products, kitchen equipment, and related industries,” he stated.
By sourcing ingredients locally and employing local staff, the Deputy Head of Mission noted that Chinese restaurants can integrate deeply into local economies, enhancing livelihoods and serving as a crucial means promoting economic cooperation between China and other countries.
“As far as I know, the growth of Chinese restaurants in Kenya has created hundreds of local jobs and even encouraged standardized planting and processing of local ingredients such as tea, maize, and seafood,” he added.
The Minister Counsellor underscored that China-Kenya relations are at their strongest in history, particularly as the two nations have agreed to elevate their ties to a China-Kenya Community with a Shared Future for the New Era.
“This positive atmosphere provides a favourable environment for deeper cooperation across the board,” Zhang remarked, urging the Chinese catering industry to seize the opportunity to expand its presence in the country and “contribute to pragmatic cooperation.”
Mr. Ying Qiang, head of the Xinhua News Agency Africa Regional Bureau, echoed the sentiment, describing Kenya and the continent as a whole as having immense potential for both cultural and economic partnerships.
“Africa is not only the largest market in the world, but its population is also growing rapidly. In the next 50 years, it will surpass China and India combined,” Ying stated.
“Through initiatives like the Belt and Road and the upcoming 2025 Chinese Master Chef Championship in Kenya, we will bring more Chinese enterprises and restaurants to help more people discover Chinese food and, through food, understand China.” He remarked
According to Ying, food diplomacy plays a crucial role in strengthening people-to-people connections and sharing the “good story of China-Africa friendship” through everyday experiences such as dining.
The forum, which was attended by industry leaders, restaurateurs, and media professionals, highlighted the expanding influence of culinary diplomacy as a soft power tool to deepen mutual understanding while opening new opportunities in trade, agribusiness, and tourism.
