China Square on Monday, March 6, resumed operations following an agreement between the Kenyan Government and Chinese traders.
In a statement, China Square replied to customers indicating that it had resumed operations at Unicity along Thika Road.
"Yes we have resumed today," affirmed the shopping outlet.
In addition, a statement by the Kenya China Chamber of Commerce (KCCC) welcomed the move by the Kenyan Government to allow the Chinese traders to resume operations.
"We welcome the good news on the resumption of operations of China Square. This follows several engagements between the Kenya Government and the Chinese Community in Kenya to reach an amicable solution to the stalemate,” the Chinese Chamber of Commerce stated.
The group further welcomed the government’s support in allowing the Chinese community to do business in Kenya adding that it would contribute to the growth of the Kenyan economy.
“Chinese businesses will contribute to Kenya’s growth and development efforts through employment creation and contribution to Kenya’s tax revenue,” the statement added.
The Chinese traders added that they expected equal and fair treatment across all their businesses to allow them a conducive environment for their businesses.
"We look forward to equal and fair treatment of all businesses across the board to ensure a conducive business environment for all and promote cordial relations based on mutual trust and benefit," the traders added.
The business hub announced an indefinitely closure on Sunday, February 26, following remarks by Trade Cabinet Secretary, Moses Kuria on February 24, that he intended to lock out Chinese traders from the UniCity Mall.
Kuria stated that China Square would encourage the entry of Chinese traders into the country who would take up opportunities that had been left for Kenyans.
Earlier on Thursday, March 2, the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) had released goods worth Ksh50 million to the business hub that were seized after complaints that the business infringed on intellectual property laws.
China Square proprietor Lei Cheng had initially expressed concerns about his business not reopening.
While announcing the closure of the hub, he stated that since the business opened on January 29, 2023, the hub was unable to handle the high volume of traffic flow of customers on a daily basis.
Moreover, he added that misleading statements and over-expectations by customers across social media and complaints of bad shopping experiences were also contributors to the closure of the business.
Lei Chang had earlier revealed that he made his first Ksh20 million in his first two weeks adding that on a low business day, his sales amounted to Ksh10 million.
