This guide brings together a research checklist and official resources. Kenya China Hub publishes reporting and practical context; this page does not offer customs clearance, supplier certification or investment advice.
Before you choose a supplier
Define the product, specification, quantity and acceptable quality before comparing offers. A low unit price tells you little without delivery terms and a clear description of what you are buying.
- Request the supplier’s registered business name, product specifications and a written quotation.
- Ask whether you are dealing with the manufacturer or a trading company, and agree who is responsible for defects.
- Compare samples against your specification. For a substantial order, consider independent inspection.
- Confirm the payment recipient matches the contracting business. Resolve unexplained changes before paying.
- Record the delivery terms, inspection requirements and dispute process in writing.
Preparing to import into Kenya
Use the Kenya Revenue Authority’s import guide as your starting point. KRA identifies customs declarations and invoices, alongside conformity and standards documentation where applicable.
Before placing an order, ask a licensed clearing agent to confirm the product classification, required permits and applicable charges for your shipment. Do not assume a rate or exemption for one product applies to another.
- Describe the goods precisely and check whether they are regulated or restricted.
- Confirm the required documents before the goods leave the supplier.
- Build a landed-cost estimate covering the purchase, transport, insurance, customs charges and local delivery.
- Keep quotations, invoices, payment records and shipment documents together.
KenTrade provides access to trade facilitation services and the InfoTrade Kenya portal. Check the current procedure for the specific goods you intend to move.
Exploring exports to China
Start with a defined product and buyer rather than a general promise of market access. Establish the destination’s product requirements, packaging and labelling expectations, buyer specifications and payment terms before committing stock.
For food and agricultural goods, verify the current product-specific approvals with the relevant Kenyan authority and the buyer. Tariff treatment and permission to sell a product are separate questions.
Researching trade and investment opportunities
Use official announcements to identify opportunities, then investigate their commercial terms. A forum or delegation is a starting point for research, not an endorsement of every participant.
The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s delegation coverage is one source of context on business exchange. Follow our business and technology reporting for further developments.
Questions to answer before committing funds
- Who is the contracting party, and how have you checked their identity?
- Which authority can confirm the applicable product requirements?
- What happens if the goods are late, damaged or different from the agreed specification?
- What is the full landed cost, and what could change it?
- Which assumptions still need confirmation from a qualified specialist?
Sources checked on . Procedures can change; consult the linked authority for the current requirements.
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