Kenyan apparel firm plans global distribution footprint

01 Sep '20

1 min read

Pic: Shutterstock

Kenyan export processing zone (EPZ) apparel company Nguo Yetu is planning to engage Kenyans working abroad, including the United States whose market offers preferential treatment to apparel and textile products from most African countries, in expanding its distribution footprint. The company with 300 employees also plans to get into partnerships with foreign companies in certain strategic markets.

"You [the Kenyan diaspora] can take advantage of such trade agreements like AGOA [African Growth Opportunity Act], which guarantees Kenyan apparel entry into the US market duty free and quota free. Make money while building your country and helping create employment through the largest locally owned apparel maker at the EPZ,” said Sheila Muirara, chief executive officer of the company.

According to the Economic Survey, Kenyan firms exporting textiles and apparels to the United States under AGOA earned a combined Sh46 billion in 2019. According to data from the Export Processing Zone Authority (EPZA), there were 24 companies operating at the EPZs and employed 49,000 Kenyans last year.

“Our main objective is to create opportunities for Kenyans as well as project Kenya as a hub for manufacturing globally,” added Muirara.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)

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