Trade and Industrialization Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria says that China Square is a middle-class conspiracy that does not favour low-income earners commonly referred to as Hustlers.
While appearing before the National Assembly’s Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Committee to deliberate on the 2023 Budget Policy Statement, the Trade CS said he is not frustrating Chinese investors but trying to prevent the country from becoming the dumping ground for sub-standard goods.
His sentiments come a day after China Square resumed operations following a week-long closure occasioned by inspections undertaken by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority.
“Yesterday, they counted 2000 vehicles. This is a middle class conspiracy and it has nothing to do with the hustlers who hold the bulk of the economy,” said Kuria.
“I cannot frustrate investors but some people are dumping (fake products) on us.”
The Trade CS, whose sentiments mirror those of small traders from Nyamakima, Gikomba, Kamkunji and Eastleigh, also said that plans are underway to establish a Kenya Square aimed at supporting local traders.
“We have not forced anyone to close their business. But I maintain we should not discourage our traders. I have a duty to speak for the Nyamakima trader. The Middle class want to buy cheap.
“I continue supporting local manufacturing. We want to have our own Kenya Square,” said Kuria.
The CS made the comments in response to concerns about the long-term fate of China Square raised by members of Parliament’s Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Committee.
