Working with traders without borders

• Basic entry point is to study economics and commerce followed by relevant exposure

Solomon Kinyanjui did not know that a student exchange programme to the United States in the late 1970s would contribute to what he is today – an international trade consultant.

The family he lived with overseas was in the exhibition business. This fascinated him. And so after high school, he decided to pursue a course in exhibition design. He did so with a company based in Germany.

An exhibition designer is trained to use collapsible display units in a way that will influence potential buyers to purchase products.

It was in the course of engaging in the exhibition business that Kinyanjui discovered international trade and decided to venture into it.

“I switched to international trade because I discovered there was high demand in the Kenyan market with very few entrepreneurs.

There was a void between good exhibition and following up on inquiries. Most entrepreneurs focused on sales,” he says.

That saw him pursue a degree in business administration from Swiss Management Academy in Germany. He majored in global business management, which ultimately led him to the job he now does.

An international trade consultant facilitates trade between organisations or individuals in different countries. The consultant acts as the link between investors and clients in different countries.

As managing director of Sols Inclinations Limited, Kinyanjui also provides advice on business rules and regulations, and helps with solutions to common business problems associated with the fact that different countries have different ways of transacting their businesses.

Part of that is to organise trade exhibitions and forums, and get involved in marketing, managing, and even building exhibition stands for the entrepreneurs.

International trade entails a lot of contracting, which call for the understanding tax and other regulations in different countries. One has to also constantly update themselves with current affairs in the business environment.

“For instance, if an exhibition is in Morocco, I will have to read widely about the country in advance, and get to know their rules and regulations concerning trade, tax details, and available opportunities, among details,” he says.

Such elaborate kind of work calls for academic strength. Kinyanjui holds a Masters degree in finance and an MBA.

According to him, international trade has lots of opportunities for young people. One just needs to be enterprising enough to open up their minds to international possibilities.

“Kenyans are not taking advantage of the opportunities provided by the government. There is a lot of information from the Chamber of Commerce, Kenya Manufacturers Association, and the Ministry of Trade, on business opportunities overseas,” he says.