Chinese real estate developers in Kenya are increasingly seeking stronger partnerships with local banks as rising capital requirements, regulatory shifts and expanding project sizes push demand for more predictable domestic financing.
Association Vice President Zhirui Liu said that as Chinese developers deepen their presence in the market, local financial institutions have become central to navigating land purchases, project funding and international transactions.
“Over the years, Chinese developers have become an important part of Kenya’s real estate landscape. Throughout this journey, they need a trusted partner, offering timely and professional support in land acquisition, project financing, corporate banking and international settlement services,” Liu said.
The sentiment emerged during a networking dinner convened by the Chinese Developers Association in Kenya to discuss financing, regulatory trends and future investment priorities.
Equity Bank Kenya Managing Director Moses Nyabanda told the developers that the lender is seeing heightened demand for structured project financing and end-to-end support.
“Our focus is to provide seamless project support, from land acquisition and construction finance to end-buyer mortgages and scheme financing,” Nyabanda said.
He added that developers are also seeking broader risk covers, noting:
“We offer comprehensive insurance solutions including fire, WIBA, medical, motor and goods-in-transit to support project continuity.”
Chinese developers have expanded from small residential units to large mixed-use communities, but many still face hurdles including complex land acquisition processes, evolving compliance requirements and market-driven funding delays.
Local banks, they said, are becoming more relevant as global capital flows tighten and demand for sustainable, professionally structured financing grows.
Developers at the forum outlined priority areas for deeper collaboration: faster financing turnaround, tailored mortgage products to spur uptake among middle-income buyers, and enhanced cross-border banking for firms operating between China and Kenya.
They also called for more industry forums to address sustainability standards and shifting market conditions.
Nyabanda encouraged direct feedback, saying:
“Tell us what is working, where we must improve and what new opportunities you see. Your feedback will shape how we serve you better.”
Looking ahead, the association outlined several priority areas for partnership, including faster financing processes to accelerate project approvals and disbursements as well as financial innovation, including tailored mortgage solutions and co-investment models.
They as well as said they are keen on enhanced cross-border services for developers operating between China and Kenya as well as expressed willingness strengthen knowledge sharing through industry forums and training to promote sustainable development.