NCBA has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Kenyan businesses to compete in regional and international markets by convening its SME Exporters Forum, bringing together government representatives, the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA), development partners, exporters and industry stakeholders.
The forum explored practical solutions for strengthening Kenya’s export ecosystem, improving export competitiveness and helping more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access growing opportunities in regional and global markets.
During the forum, participants were introduced to NCBA’s integrated Trade Finance and Global Markets solutions, designed to support businesses across the export journey. The solutions provide exporters with access to trade financing, working capital and transaction support, alongside foreign exchange, hedging and market intelligence solutions to help businesses manage cross-border trade and currency exposure.
The forum comes as Kenya’s trade agenda enters a critical phase. While the country’s merchandise exports grew by more than 10 per cent in 2024 to exceed KSh1.1 trillion, the KNBS Economic Survey 2026 indicates that Kenya’s merchandise trade deficit widened to approximately KSh1.65 trillion in 2025.
The developments underscore the need to strengthen export competitiveness, value addition and access to international markets, particularly for SMEs seeking to expand beyond Kenya.
At the same time, opportunities created through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Kenya’s trade agreements with the European Union and the United States, and China’s decision to grant approximately 98.2 per cent zero-duty market access for eligible Kenyan products under the Early Harvest Agreement are opening new pathways for Kenyan exporters.
Speaking during the forum, NCBA Group Director, Retail Banking, Dennis Njau, said Kenya’s next phase of economic growth will increasingly be driven by businesses capable of competing beyond the country’s borders.
“Kenya does not lack products the world wants. Our task now is to ensure more Kenyan businesses have what they need to take those products to the world. Access to markets creates opportunity, but businesses also need financing, trade expertise and trusted partnerships to convert that opportunity into sustainable growth. That is where NCBA comes in,” said Njau.
He added that businesses require more than market access to successfully expand internationally.
“At NCBA, we believe every export journey begins with belief. But belief alone is not enough. It must be matched with capability through access to finance, working capital, foreign exchange solutions and strong partnerships. Through our purpose of Banking on Belief. Empowering Ambitions., we are committed to helping Kenyan businesses compete confidently on the global stage,” he said.
KEPROBA Economic Intelligence Officer Kevin Oluoch emphasized the importance of collaboration in unlocking Kenya’s export potential.
“Kenya’s export ambitions will only be realised through strong partnerships between government, financial institutions, development partners and the private sector. Together, we can equip SMEs with the market access, financing and support they need to compete globally and unlock greater value for the country’s economy,” said Oluoch.
The SME Exporters Forum highlighted the importance of a collaborative export ecosystem that provides businesses with financing, market intelligence, technical knowledge and market linkages needed to successfully expand into regional and international markets.
Through its Ubuntu philosophy, “I am because we are,” NCBA reaffirmed that sustainable export growth requires collaboration across the entire value chain.
As part of its continued commitment to supporting Kenyan exporters, NCBA will later this year host its annual China Market Linkage Programme, connecting Kenyan businesses with buyers, suppliers and strategic partners in one of the world’s largest trading economies.
The programme will provide participating businesses with opportunities to explore commercial relationships, understand market dynamics and build connections that can support expansion into the Chinese market.
Through its purpose of Banking on Belief. Empowering Ambitions., NCBA continues to partner with businesses, communities and institutions to unlock opportunities that drive sustainable economic growth and create lasting impact across Kenya and the region.
