Chinese tyre manufacturing company, Linglong Tire, has announced plans to set up a manufacturing plant in Kenya.
The revelation came after a meeting between the company’s chairperson, Wang Feng, and President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on Friday, January 17.
According to President Ruto, the new facility will cater to the entire African market while creating thousands of jobs for Kenyans.
The president highlighted the move as a significant indicator of Kenya’s growing appeal as a destination for foreign investment.
“Kenya continues to position itself as a premier destination for foreign investment, offering a range of attractive incentives designed to encourage investor confidence,” President Ruto stated.
“The government remains committed to enhancing these incentives to ensure a competitive and investor-friendly environment. At State House, Nairobi, I held talks with Linglong Tyres Chairman Wang Feng, who plans to set up a factory in Kenya to serve the African market.”
A Major Investment for Kenya
Linglong Tire, a global leader in tyre production with a valuation of approximately USD 35.23 billion (Ksh 4.5 trillion), is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Kenya.
Founded in the 1970s, the company produces tyres for various vehicles, including saloon cars, trucks, and buses.
Linglong products are already available in Kenya, and the establishment of a local factory is expected to enhance availability and affordability.
The new manufacturing plant will not only serve the Kenyan market but also act as a hub for the entire African continent, aligning with the government’s industrialization and job creation goals.
Location and Timelines Yet to Be Revealed
While the announcement marks a major milestone in Kenya’s investment landscape, specific details about the location of the factory and the project’s commencement date remain undisclosed.
Linglong Tire’s decision to invest in Kenya underscores growing investor confidence in the country’s strategic positioning, robust infrastructure, and business-friendly policies.
The project is expected to strengthen Kenya’s industrial capacity and provide a boost to its economy.
As Kenya moves closer to realizing its vision of becoming a manufacturing and industrial hub for Africa, this partnership with Linglong Tire serves as a testament to the country’s increasing global competitiveness.
