The Chinese government has broken its silence over the closure of China Square mall which retailed products at a lower price compared to other Kenyan owned business outlets in the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 28, China’s Director-General of the Department of African Affairs of the Foreign Ministry, Wu Peng asked the Kenyan government to provide a conducive business environment for both Chinese and Kenyan traders who have and wish to conduct business in both countries.
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Wu Peng stated that Kenya is one of China’s huge trade partners. He further stated that the Chinese government is keen on fostering a long-lasting economic relation between the two nations.
“A non-arbitrary and non-discriminatory investment environment is vital to the healthy development of bilateral practical cooperation. I believe that through collective efforts, China-Kenya cooperation will better benefit both people,” the statement by Wu Peng read in part.
The Chinese envoy pointed out that Kenya has gained from businesses owned and run by his countrymen.
“Our commitment will translate into more favorable policies for foreign investors. International supermarkets, chain-stores can be seen everywhere in China, and we welcome more to come.
“Brotherly bonds and fruitful outcomes are cornerstones of China-Kenya cooperation. The slogan of a famous Chinese ceramics factory in Kenya – Twyford tile is ‘Buy Local, Build Local’,” he added.
On Saturday, February 25, Lei Cheng, the owner China Square mall announced its temporary closure aftetr Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria said the mall which is based at Kenyatta University’s Unicity should be leased out.
“I have today given an offer to Prof. Wainaina the VC Kenyatta University to buy out the lease for China Square, Unicity Mall and hand it over to the Gikomba, Nyamakima, Muthurwa & Eastleigh Traders Association. We welcome Chinese investors to Kenya as manufacturers, not traders,” CS Kuria said.
