China Square reopens
China Square, a well-known retail establishment in Nairobi, has reopened after being closed for a little over a week.
According to a statement by Kenya Chinese Chamber of Commerce (KCCC), China Square was granted approval to reopen on Monday, March 6, 2023 after multiple discussions between the Kenyan government and the Chinese community in Kenya.
“The Kenya Chinese Chamber of Commerce welcomes the good news on the resumption of operations of China Square following several engagements between the Kenya Government and the Chinese Community in Kenya to find an amicable solution to the stalemate,” KCCC wrote.
The KCCC expressed its delight at the good news and thanked the Kenyan government for helping to make it possible for the Chinese Community to conduct business and support Kenya’s growth and development initiatives.
In order to ensure a favorable business environment for everyone and to foster friendly ties based on mutual trust and benefit, the KCCC also called for the equal and fair treatment of all firms across the board.
The KCCC said it will continue to foster collaboration between Kenya and China in promoting investments, trade and tourism between the two countries.
China Square, which established its first store at Nairobi’s UniCity Mall in January 2023, was accused of providing a wide range of goods at low prices, luring many customers and igniting debate among local business owners and even politicians.
The retail location was temporarily closed on February 26, 2023 as a result of extensive online attention that led to threats from Moses Kuria, the Trade Cabinet Secretary, who accused the business of unfair competition.
On February 27, 2023, the closure was extended indefinitely owing to what the China Square management termed as concerns about public safety and misleading statements.