Held under the theme “Digitalising Trade,” the Forum spotlights the transformative potential of technologies such as e-commerce, artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and secure digital payments in enhancing trade flows, fostering sustainable development, and connecting Kenyan businesses to the European market.
The event comes shortly after the entry into force of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) in July 2024, marking a new era of strengthened economic cooperation. The Forum marks the first official visit to Kenya by the European Union Commissioner for Trade, Mr Maroš Šefčovič, and the inaugural meeting of the EU-Kenya EPA Ministerial Council, where both sides will assess the progress and potential of the EPA. Total trade between the EU and Kenya reached EUR 3,4 billion in 2023, with an increase of 13% in the last year and of 53% in the last 10 years. The EU is Kenya’s first export destination, with 14% of the total exports. The EU’s investment in Kenya increased by 61% since 2013.
High-level participants at the Forum include H.E. Dr William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, Mr Maroš Šefčovič, European Union Commissioner for Trade, and Mr. Thomas Östros, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank. Also attending are the Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade, and Industry, H.E. Hon. Lee Kinyanjui,Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and Digital Economy, H.E. Hon.William Kabogo and several business and trade delegations from EU Member States.
The forum is attended by more than 700 business with representation from delegates from Kenya, other East Africa countries, Europe with 60 travelling companies and around 130 with a base in Kenya.
Among the expected outcomes of the forum will be the signing of a financing agreement between the European Investment Bank and Family Bank; and the signing agreement between the EU’s Investing in Young Businesses in Africa and the Women Entrepreneurship for Africa, Signing Ceremony to finance women entrepreneurs.
Highlight of the Forum is the launch of the European Chamber of Commerce in Kenya (EuroCham Kenya) to further institutionalising the EU-Kenya trade relationship and providing a platform for dialogue and business facilitation.
Participants will also engage in Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business to Government (B2G) networking. For select companies, there will engage in Business to Finance (B2F) speed dating to foster financing especially for MSMEs and incubators.
Amid shifting economic landscapes and global trade disruptions, the EU-Kenya partnership offers predictable, fair access to a prosperous market of over 450 million consumers, bolstering Kenya’s economic resilience and creating inclusive business opportunities.
The EU-Kenya Business Forum offers direct engagement with decision-makers, strategic insights on digital trade, and access to innovative tools and platforms that improve market access for businesses of all sizes. This Forum deepens economic ties and reinforces Kenya’s role as a continental leader in innovation, digital transformation, and inclusive growth.
