Kenya Stops Importation Of Sugar From Outside COMESA, EAC

• The government increased the sugar import permit application and renewal fees in August 2024
• Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Andrew Karanja raised concerns over illegal smuggling of the sweetener into the country
• CS Karanja banned the importation of sugar outside the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa and the East African Community (EAC)

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Kenya government has issued a ban on the importation of sugar from outside the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa and the East African Community (EAC).

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Andrew Karanja said the move was informed by improved local production.

How much sugar does Kenya produce?

Local sugar production in Kenya hit 800,000 metric tons in 2022, and the CS projected this number to increase in 2024.

"Over the past four years, Kenya has produced approximately 700,000 metric tons of sugar annually from 16 factories, peaking at around 800,000 metric tons in 2022. Production in 2024 is projected to surpass this amount," said Karanja.

Data from the Kenya Sugar Directorate showed that millers produced 63,075 tonnes in February 2024, compared to 60,680 tonnes produced in January 2024 after the resumption of operation.

Imported sugar dropped from 27,179 tonnes reported in July 2023 following the ban on local manufacturing to 42,381 tonnes shipped into the country in the same period under review.

CS Karanja cited the severe drought experienced in 2023, which saw the government halt local production, necessitating substantial imports to cover the shortfall.

What's the sugar consumption in Kenya?

Kenya consumes approximately 950,000 metric tons annually. The additional 150,000 metric tons are met through imports from COMESA and EAC countries.

"Due to similar drought conditions experienced in COMESA and EAC countries last year, Kenya temporarily allowed sugar imports from outside these regions to protect consumers from high prices.

"This year, with improved local production leading to lower sugar prices, the import window for countries outside COMESA and EAC was not extended," he noted.

The CS also cited challenges related to sugar imports from outside COMESA and EAC, including illegal sugar smuggling through porous borders.

He assured that security agencies are addressing the issue to ensure standard imports and support for local production.

How much is permit fees for sugar importation in Kenya?

In August 2024, the government announced changes to the sugar and sugar by-products import and export permit fees.

Traders will be required to pay KSh 200,000, up from KSh 100,000, to obtain or renew the sugar import permit, a move that would shift consumer prices.

Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) shared the timelines for the collection of the licences once applied.

Proofreading by Otukho Jackson, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke