Kenya pitches itself as entry point to African market for Indian companies

New Delhi: Kenya will serve as a gateway to the entire African market for Indian products, a diplomat said on Wednesday, pitching for greater investment from Indian companies in the East African nation.

Addressing a special session organised by the Merchants' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) in Kolkata, High Commissioner Peter Munyiri said Kenya has adopted pro-investment foreign exchange rules and offers the rule of law under its constitution.

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"Investments in Kenya are treated in perpetuity. Entering Kenya will give access to the entire African market. The Kenyan Investments Authority will guide Indian investments," he said, adding that Indian products already enjoy good acceptance in the country.

The envoy said tariffs are harmonised in East Africa, and road connectivity in the region is improving. Kenya has three seaports that offer maritime connectivity with India.

He said the Kenyan population is highly literate, and Indian firms operating there would find good talent. Nearly three lakh Indians are currently living in the African nation, he added.

Munyiri also called on India to allow the entry of agricultural produce from East Africa.

Bilateral trade between India and Kenya crossed USD 4.3 billion in 2025-26, with the India-Kenya Joint Trade Committee identifying new areas of cooperation in manufacturing, agriculture, digital infrastructure, logistics, energy and investment promotion, officials said.

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Arun Kumar Garodia, chairman of the MCCI's Council on Foreign Trade, said West Bengal has the potential to position itself as India's eastern gateway to Africa, just as Kenya serves as East Africa's gateway to the continent.

Honorary Consul of Kenya in Kolkata, Pranay Poddar, was also present at the session held at the MCCI Conference Hall.

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