Emirates Logistics, an international logistics service provider, has disclosed its intentions to boost its Kenyan operations through the development of a cutting-edge facility within the Tatu City Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
Steven van der Vliet, Emirates Logistics’ Chief Commercial Officer, stated that the new facility will play a crucial role in supporting the company’s expansion throughout sub-Saharan Africa by enhancing continental trade in Kenya and the wider East African Region.
“We have chosen Tatu City as our location, as it is at the core of Kenya’s economic activity and will therefore allow us to deliver customised logistics solutions that help both our existing and new customers succeed.” He said.
Construction of the establishment is scheduled to commence this year, adding to the company’s global presence in 15 countries and an international network of agents.
The logistics giant maintains its own warehousing offices and transport fleets across 14 countries, namely the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Ivory Coast, South Africa, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Malaysia, with Kenya as its newest addition.
On his part, Tatu City Chief Financial Officer George Kapanadze noted that the investment hub provides a conducive business environment for global investors, encompassing housing, retail, schools, parks, and recreation facilities.
“We warmly welcome Emirates Logistics to its new home in Kenya, where we believe they will flourish in a supportive business environment,” he noted.
The SEZ located in Kiambu and a flagship project of the Kenya Vision 2030 blueprint provides secure, predictable, and proven environments for both individuals and businesses while accommodating over 6,000 students and families in its 10,000 mixed-income home units.
Tatu City is home to over 100 businesses, including major international brands like Heineken, Cold Solutions, CCI Global, Dormans, FullCare, Kärcher, CKL, Naivas, NCBA, Grit Real Estate Income Group, Hewatele, Freight Forwarders Solutions, Tamarind Group, ADvTECH, Friendship Group, Bakels, Novis, and Davis & Shirtliff.
Companies choosing to operate within the Tatu City Special Economic Zone (SEZ) are eligible for attractive incentives designed to foster business growth.
These include a significantly reduced corporate tax rate of 10% for the first 10 years, followed by 15% for the subsequent 10 years, a substantial decrease from Kenya’s standard corporate tax rate of 30%.
Beyond corporate tax benefits, businesses in the Tatu City SEZ also enjoy VAT zero-rating on goods and services, along with exemptions on import duty and stamp duty.
by Hellen Lunalo
