President William Ruto and Linglong Tire company chairperson Wang Feng.

Chinese tyre manufacturer Linglong Tire has unveiled plans to establish a production facility in Kenya, aiming to serve the African market.

The announcement came after Linglong Tire Chairperson Wang Feng met with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on Friday, January 17. During the meeting, President Ruto lauded the move as a significant boost to Kenya’s economy, emphasizing the job opportunities it would create for Kenyans.

“This investment is a testament to the growing confidence in Kenya as a prime destination for foreign investors,” Ruto remarked. “The government is committed to fostering a competitive and investor-friendly environment by offering attractive incentives to global businesses.”

He further noted that the factory would serve the entire African continent, positioning Kenya as a hub for manufacturing and trade.

Linglong Tire, founded in the 1970s, is a global leader in tyre production, supplying tyres for saloon cars, trucks, and buses. Some of its products are already available in Kenya. The company is valued at approximately USD 35.23 billion (about Ksh4.5 trillion), according to Stock Analysis.

While the plans for the factory were confirmed, details regarding its location and construction timeline remain undisclosed.

The announcement underscores Kenya’s growing appeal as an investment destination, with the government actively pursuing foreign direct investments to bolster the economy.