Chinese automakers are rapidly increasing their footprint in Kenya’s automotive sector, capturing a growing share of the country’s new vehicle market as dealers roll out more models and offer aggressively priced financing options. Led by brands such as Sinotruk and Foton, Chinese vehicles accounted for approximately 7.46 per cent of new vehicle sales, according to data from the Kenya Motor Industry Association, with 840 units sold during the period.
The surge is being driven by a combination of lower pricing, wider model availability, and supportive government policy. Dealers have expanded their line-ups to include sedans, SUVs, trucks, buses and, increasingly, electric vehicles, appealing to both commercial and private buyers. Flexible financing options, including zero-deposit plans, have further improved accessibility, challenging the long-standing dominance of Japanese brands in the market.
Kenya’s National Automotive Policy, which provides tax incentives for local assembly through completely knocked down (CKD) kits, has also played a key role. The policy has attracted investment from Chinese manufacturers and their partners, helping reduce vehicle costs and positioning Kenya as a strategic East African hub for regional expansion. Brands such as Chery, Jetour and Global Motors are leveraging local assembly to scale operations and strengthen after-sales support.
The Kenyan trend reflects a broader continental shift. Across Africa, used vehicles continue to outsell new cars by roughly two to one, driven by affordability and availability, with the used-car market valued at over 105 billion USD in 2024 and projected to reach 112 billion USD in 2025. South Africa remains a notable exception, where new vehicle sales still exceed used. Meanwhile, Chinese automakers are gaining momentum across the continent, recording sales growth of up to 89 per cent between January and June 2025 in some markets.
By offering competitive quality at lower prices, Chinese brands are reshaping consumer choices and expanding the pool of buyers who can afford new vehicles. In Kenya, their growing presence in public transport, security fleets, and personal mobility signals a significant shift in vehicle acquisition patterns and highlights a changing automotive landscape in East Africa.
