Nairobi: Emirates Logistics, an international logistics service provider, has announced its plan to enhance its operations in Kenya with the construction of a new facility within the Tatu City Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This move is part of the company’s strategy to expand its footprint across sub-Saharan Africa, facilitating trade in Kenya and the broader East African region.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates Logistics, Steven van der Vliet, emphasized that the new facility will be instrumental in supporting the company’s growth. The choice of Tatu City is strategic due to its central role in Kenya’s economic landscape, enabling the delivery of tailored logistics solutions to both existing and potential customers. The construction of the new hub is set to begin this year, further extending the company’s presence, which spans 15 countries.
The logistics company operates its own warehousing offices and transport fleets across 14 countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Ivory Coast, South Africa, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Malaysia. Kenya is the latest addition to this extensive network.
George Kapanadze, Chief Financial Officer of Tatu City, highlighted that the investment hub offers a favorable business environment for global investors. Tatu City encompasses housing, retail, schools, parks, and recreation facilities, providing a welcoming setting for Emirates Logistics in Kenya.
The SEZ, a key project under Kenya Vision 2030, offers secure and predictable conditions for businesses and residents, housing over 6,000 students and families within its 10,000 mixed-income home units. Tatu City hosts more than 100 businesses, including prominent international brands such as Heineken, Cold Solutions, CCI Global, Dormans, and several others.
Companies operating in the Tatu City SEZ benefit from incentives designed to stimulate business growth. These include a reduced corporate tax rate of 10% for the initial 10 years, followed by 15% for the next decade, a significant reduction from Kenya’s regular corporate tax rate of 30%. Additionally, businesses enjoy VAT zero-rating on goods and services and exemptions from import duty and stamp duty.
