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| Protester wants Chinese business to be stop Image: BBC/EPA |
Kenya has been the location of a conflict with a Chinese-owned business selling low-cost home products, which has reopened following the dismissal of a counterfeit charge against it. The business, which had been popular with customers due to its low prices, had already closed its doors at the time of last week's protest as controversy surrounded it. Several small-scale traders, who are an important component of Kenya's economy, have seen a reduction in business and are requesting that the Chinese leave the country.
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| Peter Sitati Image: BBC News |
Peter Sitati, who imports and distributes beauty equipment in Nairobi, attested that he was covering the taxes and duties he was charged and that he felt he would be able to get the products from China for a greater price than China Square. China Square could not describe how it sets its costs, although it may profit for being capable of purchasing in greater volumes and having a more real interaction with the producers.
Lei Cheng, the creator of China Square, said he had done nothing amiss. Kenya's government has been embroiled in a scandal following the closing of their business, China Square, due to allegations of selling counterfeit products. The Kenya Chinese Chamber of Commerce (KCCC) hailed the re-opening of China Square on Monday, but did not elaborate on the discussions. The administration is attempting to reassure potential investors by stating that Kenya welcomes foreign investment and makes no distinction as to where it comes from. Mr. Lei, Kenya's corporate executive, spent more than $157,000 in the first two weeks to disrupt the exclusivity and is now capable of marketing high-quality items at low costs.
The tale has piqued the interest of the government, with one official suggesting that it discontinue operations as a shop. Kenya has struggled to attract international investment and promote free trade while safeguarding domestic merchants from predatory pricing. According to the Kenya Investment Promotion Act, an investment must benefit the country by creating new employment, transferring new skills or technology, or utilizing indigenous resources or services.
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| Chinese-owned retail store. China Square at Kenyatta, University in Nairobi Image: Jenipher Wachie/Standard |
Four Chinese men were deported in 2020 after they were implicated of inflicting punishment a Kenyan man who worked at a Chinese restaurant. President William Ruto has committed to expel Chinese nationals who do business that Kenyans can accomplish. China Square is no longer operating from a kiosk, but its re-opening continues to provide a challenge to minor vendors.
