East African manufacturers urged to adopt global packaging standards to boost competitiveness

KENYA – Manufacturers and packaging industry stakeholders across East Africa have been urged to adopt world-class packaging technologies and standards to enhance the region’s global competitiveness and expand export opportunities.

The call was made during the 10th edition of the Propak East Africa Expo, where policymakers and industry leaders emphasized the role of modern packaging systems in strengthening trade and consumer trust.

Speaking at the event, Matthew Kipchumba, a director at the State Department of Trade, said aligning with international packaging standards is essential for positioning Kenyan and East African products competitively in global markets.

“By embedding world-class packaging systems into our national trade strategies, Kenya and the East African region secure not only compliance, but dignity for our producers, confidence for our consumers, and a future where every product can stand tall on any global shelf,” Kipchumba said.

The appeal comes as East Africa’s packaging sector experiences rapid growth, supported by expanding fast-moving consumer goods markets, rising urban populations, and increased regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Industry stakeholders say modern packaging plays a critical role in ensuring product safety, extending shelf life, improving branding, and meeting regulatory requirements in international markets.

Angela Kinyua, Managing Director of Montgomery Group East Africa, noted that the milestone edition of the exhibition highlights the sector’s growth and the importance of collaboration in shaping its future.

“As we celebrate a decade of progress, we look forward to another decade and beyond of strategic partnership with manufacturing and packaging companies across Africa, continuing to strengthen the voice and global standing of the East African packaging sector,” she said.

Industry leaders also emphasized that closer collaboration between regulators, manufacturers, and technology providers will be essential to accelerate innovation while meeting evolving sustainability and compliance requirements.

Joseph Nyongesa, Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Packaging Professionals Kenya, said the sector has made significant strides in the past decade but must continue aligning with international best practices.

“The progress we’ve seen over the past decade is proof that collaboration and adherence to global best practices transform the industry,” Nyongesa said.

“Our focus remains on creating packaging systems that elevate our enterprises, protect the environment, and secure long-term trade competitiveness.”

Now in its 10th year, Propak East Africa Expo has evolved into the region’s leading platform for packaging and processing innovation. The exhibition connects regional manufacturers with international technology providers, equipment suppliers, and solution partners.

This year’s event features a wide range of innovations aimed at improving packaging sustainability, production efficiency, and product safety across industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and consumer goods.

Industry analysts note that such platforms play an increasingly important role in helping African manufacturers adopt modern packaging technologies and integrate into global supply chains.

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