Kenya’s new import and export inspection rule, which could increase the cost of certain commodities and small quantities, has raised concerns with traders, according to news reports.
According to the Kenya Bureau of Standards and the Kenya Revenue Authority, imports must be accompanied by a certificate of conformity, effective December 1.
Daily online newspaper, Business Daily, cited Gilbert Lang, council executive of the Shippers Council of Eastern Africa, as commenting that while the changes could potentially address the issue of contraband goods, it could also ultimately increase end-user prices, especially if inspection fees are factored in.
“This could ultimately force thousands of small and medium sized firms – the largest employers in the country – to close,” said Lang.
