Richard Cheruiyot, Chairman, Export Processing Zone (EPZA), says, Kenya plans to increase the value of its apparel exports to the US and European Union to $2 billion by 2030. By 2025, the country will increase the value of these exports to $1billion. It currently exports $544 million worth of apparel to the two markets.
To achieve this target, Kenya plans to revive its textile factors to benefit cotton farmers, grow local industries and create jobs for the youth. The US is also providing $55 million for the expansion of the EPZA
The sector also benefits from the use of advanced technologies and development of the Green Energy Park in Olkaria Naivash. The Green Energy Park will provide a stable and renewable energy source for industries within the park, including those involved in apparel production.
EPZA also plans to increase its land under cotton cultivation from the current 40,000 acres 100,000 acres next year, with a target of 300,000 acres in the next 3 years. It is negotiating with a South Korean company to produce synthetic fibers.
