East African countries lure US apparel retailers

American consumers are becoming more market savvy. They are attuned to where products are sourced and how they are made. The Trade Hub is making this possible by connecting U.S. buyers to unique, high quality products that reflect African culture and values.

Sammy Abella, founder of Sammy Handmade in Ethiopia, sums it up when he says of the high-level visits, “It shows the commitment and long-term plan both companies have to sustain working relationships for the long haul. We all looked at product development, production, employment, environment and facilities to explore how to improve, maintain and build our capacity. This visit taught us how to upgrade and take our company’s standards to a higher level.”

USAID