NCBA Bank has embarked on a 12-day market exposure trip to China, taking more than 100 of its commercial and SME customers to explore one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs. The trip aims to equip participants with insights into global trade connectivity, sourcing opportunities, and the latest technological advancements, aligning with NCBA’s ongoing commitment to empowering Kenyan businesses to scale internationally.
The journey underscores NCBA’s strategic focus on building capacity for its customers through exposure to global markets, beyond the bank’s core financial services. Participants will engage with Chinese industry leaders, visit major business districts, and explore emerging sectors in cities such as Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Foshan.
Empowering Kenyan Businesses through Global Exposure
Since 2016, NCBA has consistently organized market exposure trips for its business clients to explore emerging markets and industry trends. This year’s China trip offers participants a rare opportunity to understand business dynamics in sectors such as:
- Green Energy
- Manufacturing
- Technology
- Logistics and Supply Chains
Participants are expected to not only source trading equipment and goods but also explore potential partnerships. This initiative is part of NCBA’s broader vision to support Kenyan SMEs and commercial enterprises, which play a crucial role in Kenya’s economic development.
Tailored Financial Solutions to Support Business Growth
NCBA has also integrated specialized financial services into the trip. These include preferential foreign currency exchange rates for USD, business banking loans, and financing options for imported goods. The bank believes such initiatives will enable customers to explore international opportunities with minimal financial barriers.
“Our commitment is to go beyond banking by providing tailored solutions and experiences that will enable our customers to grow,” said Mr. Tirus Mwithiga, Group Director of Retail Banking at NCBA. “The insights gained from these trips, coupled with the financial support we offer, will accelerate their business growth and ultimately contribute to Kenya’s economy.”
A Strategic 12-Day Itinerary
The detailed itinerary for the trip reflects the bank’s ambition to ensure customers gain diverse business insights and exposure to trade opportunities.
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9th October 2024 | Departure from Kenya |
| 10th October 2024 | Arrival in Hong Kong |
| – Welcome dinner and itinerary briefing | |
| 11th October 2024 | Hong Kong City Tour |
| – Victoria Peak, Symphony of Lights, and Victoria Harbor Cruise | |
| 12th October 2024 | Transfer from Hong Kong to Shenzhen and Guangzhou |
| – Company visits and panoramic tour in Shenzhen | |
| – Transfer to Guangzhou via bullet train | |
| 13th October 2024 | Market visits in Guangzhou |
| – Visits to wholesale markets to explore trade opportunities | |
| 14th October 2024 | Continuation of market visits |
| – Further exploration of Guangzhou’s wholesale markets | |
| 15th October 2024 | Canton Fair (Autumn Phase I) |
| – Participation in trade fair to discover global business trends | |
| 16th October 2024 | Foshan Visit |
| – Visits to Foshan Furniture Mall, ceramics markets, and sanitary ware shops | |
| – Evening at the Chimelong Circus Show | |
| 17th October 2024 | Leisure Day in Guangzhou |
| – Optional shopping or additional Canton Fair attendance | |
| – Farewell dinner | |
| 18th October 2024 | Final leisure day before departure |
This itinerary balances structured business activities with leisure and cultural experiences, ensuring participants have time to explore both professional and personal interests.
A Broader Goal of Economic Growth and Business Empowerment
According to NCBA, initiatives like this are aligned with the bank’s goal of enhancing Kenya’s economic landscape. Mr. Mwithiga emphasized the bank’s desire to facilitate market access and capacity building for SMEs, ensuring businesses can connect with global trade networks and thrive in competitive environments.
“We believe these opportunities will open new growth avenues for our customers and enable them to make meaningful connections in one of the world’s leading trade hubs,” Mwithiga stated. He also noted that NCBA’s business customers’ success in such global markets would have a direct positive impact on the bank’s performance and Kenya’s economic development.
A Call to Future Participants
NCBA encourages other businesses eager to participate in upcoming international exposure trips to reach out to their relationship managers. Potential customers interested in leveraging these opportunities can also visit any NCBA branch countrywide to open a business account.
This market familiarization trip reflects NCBA’s commitment to creating value beyond core banking services, offering customers the tools, knowledge, and exposure required to grow on a global scale.
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