Manufacturers and packaging industry players across East Africa have been urged to adopt world-class packaging systems and innovations to boost the region’s competitiveness in international markets.
The call came during the 10th Edition of the Propak East Africa Expo, officially opened on March 3 at Nairobi’s Sarit Expo Centre. The three-day exhibition and conference has attracted over 5,000 stakeholders from the packaging, printing, plastics, and processing industries, including manufacturers, suppliers, policymakers, and technology providers from more than 35 countries.
Speaking on behalf of Regina Ombam, Principal Secretary, State Department for Trade, Matthew Kipchumba, Director at the State Department of Trade, stressed that modern packaging standards are crucial for enhancing Kenya’s export competitiveness and consumer confidence.
“Embedding world-class packaging systems into our national trade strategies ensures 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,” he said.
The push for innovation comes as East Africa’s packaging sector experiences rapid growth, driven by expanding FMCG markets, urbanisation, and increased regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Angela Kinyua, Managing Director of Montgomery Group East Africa, said the milestone edition underscores both industry growth and the value of partnerships.
“As we celebrate a decade of progress, we look forward to another decade and beyond of strategic collaboration with manufacturing and packaging companies across Africa, strengthening the voice and global standing of the East African packaging sector,” she said.
Industry leaders highlighted the importance of collaboration between regulators, manufacturers, and technology providers to support innovation while addressing sustainability and regulatory requirements.
Joseph Nyongesa, CEO of the Institute of Packaging Professionals Kenya, noted that while the sector has made significant strides over the past decade, aligning with global best practices remains essential.
“The progress we’ve seen is proof that collaboration and adherence to global standards transform the industry. Our focus remains on creating packaging systems that elevate enterprises, protect the environment, and secure long-term trade competitiveness,” he said.
Now in its 10th year, Propak East Africa has become the region’s leading platform for packaging and processing innovation, connecting local manufacturers with global technology providers. This year’s exhibition showcases solutions aimed at improving sustainability, production efficiency, and product safety across sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and consumer goods.
The programme also features technical training sessions, industry masterclasses, and policy discussions designed to strengthen skills development and support East Africa’s transition to modern, sustainable manufacturing systems.
Propak East Africa runs until March 5, 2026, and is expected to facilitate new partnerships, technology adoption, and knowledge exchange that will shape the future of packaging and processing industries in the region.
