NCBA ELEVATES BUSINESS GROWTH WITH CHINA TRADE MISSION FOR ITS SME & COMMERCIAL BANKING CUSTOMERS

NCBA has seen off 110 Commercial and SME Banking customers for the 2025 business trip to China curated by the Bank. The trip will offer NCBA’s SME customers a unique opportunity to visit trading facilities, engage with market leaders, and experience China’s key commercial hubs.

The 12-day business exposure trip, taking place from October 12th to 23rd, 2025, combines intensive business immersion in the Chinese market with cultural experiences and engagement with Chinese business associations and chambers of commerce. Participants will benefit from practical insights, valuable contacts, and a global perspective on opportunities for their businesses.

The 2025 cohort of these customers exploring China operate in different sectors such as: FMCG /Electronics and Electrical suppliers, Telecommunication and Technology, Machinery/Motor Vehicle and Spare parts, Construction/ Real Estate, Manufacturing and Value addition, Furniture and Interior décor, Beauty and Cosmetics, Textile and Clothing, Green Energy/Energy, Medical/ Chemicals/ Pharmaceuticals, Film & Photography, Service Industry and Agriculture and Food Security.

Kenya-China trade has over the years been characterized by an import surplus for Kenya. In the first half of 2025, Kenya’s imports from China reached Sh304.65 billion, compared to 2023, where China’s exports to Kenya were approximately $4.66 billion, and Kenya’s exports to China were approximately $221 million. This trend highlights China’s role as a major supplier of goods to Kenya, making it a strategic location for the Bank’s business customers.

Commenting on the initiative, Dennis Njau, Group Director, Retail Banking noted, “We are proud to once again facilitate a trip to China for our customers. By aiding this, we have enabled many customers to have access to global supply chains that will strengthen their businesses and in turn contribute to a stronger economy back home.

“China has been a critical ingredient to the Kenyan business sector’s growth being one of Kenya’s top export destinations, particularly for agricultural products. It is a top source for imports for Kenyan businesses; and is a key player in Kenya’s infrastructural & investment, tourism & cultural exchange and geo-political significance. This initiative is therefore quite timely for our SME and Commercial Banking clients as they scale their businesses to the next level,” Dennis Njau, added.

During the trip, clients will visit key business hubs in main Chinese cities, source trading materials, and interact with manufacturing, technological, logistics, and retail industry leaders.

The trip will enable SMEs to establish global contacts, secure new suppliers, and view value chains that would expand their businesses.

This tour therefore reinforces NCBA’s role as a trusted business partner in business growth beyond economic opportunity. By combining funding and global exposure initiatives, NCBA is empowering its SME clients to take advantage of new international trade opportunities presented by China

Key trip itinerary highlights include: Business Association Engagements, Customer Centric Company/Factory Visits, Exposure to Guanghzou Wholesale Markets, Exposure to Foshan Ceramics & Furniture, Wholesale Markets, Cultural Experience & Sightseeing, Leisure Shopping & Entertainment and the Canton Fair.

The Canton Fair, which is a key element of the NCBA China Business Trip component, presents the opportunity for the SMEs and Commercial enterprises to have direct access to Chinese manufacturers and global suppliers, enabling them to source innovative products, discover industry trends, and secure better deals for improved profit margins.

NCBA’s trip to China follows other SME empowerment initiatives like capacity development training, networking forums, and financing programs aimed at unlocking business potential.