KNCCI Launches Dubai Office to Protect Kenyan Exporters, Curb Billions in Losses, and Strengthen Trade Across the UAE and GCC Markets

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has opened a new office in Dubai to support Kenyan exporters and tackle persistent trade challenges. The initiative aims to address up to 90 percent of the problems faced by traders engaging with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other GCC countries.

KNCCI President Dr. Eric Rutto explained that Kenyan businesses have lost billions in unpaid shipments and damaged goods. “Trade between Kenya and the UAE has expanded, but so have the risks. This office will help us protect our exporters,” he said.

Despite several bilateral agreements, trade imbalances continue to cost Kenyan businesses heavily. Annual losses from unpaid shipments, lost containers, and delayed payments are estimated at about KSh6.78 billion. Dr. Rutto detailed that weekly losses of fresh produce average three containers, totaling roughly 150 containers yearly. Meat exports face similar challenges, with 20 to 25 percent of shipments unpaid, amounting to nearly KSh6 billion.

Cynthia Nyawira, KNCCI’s Chair of Economic Diplomacy, added that unscrupulous traders took advantage of weak oversight. “That changes today,” she said, emphasizing the new measures to safeguard exporters.

Through the Dubai office, KNCCI plans to strengthen market linkages, promote Kenyan businesses, and provide protective measures for exporters. These include buyer verification, complete business profiling, advance payments up to 80 percent for established firms, end-to-end traceability, and compliance support through vetted providers. Only KNCCI members will access these safeguards.

Dr. Rutto said the office targets a 10 percent year-on-year growth in exports directly attributed to KNCCI’s initiatives. “We aim to increase trade by KSh753 million, roughly KSh80 billion, across GCC countries,” he noted.

The Chamber is urging Kenyan traders to join KNCCI and leverage the Dubai office to avoid losses and fraudulent deals. By providing structured support and oversight, KNCCI hopes to make international trade safer and more profitable for all Kenyan exporters.