Kenya dropped import fees on nuts and oil crops from East African countries for companies in special trade zones. Agriculture officials issued this change through a legal update that starts April 17. The new rule helps businesses in Export Processing Zones enjoy better trade with regional partners like Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.
Dr Bruno Linyiru from the Agriculture and Food Authority announced the exemption aligns with recent finance laws. These crops make up over one percent of the national GDP and create many jobs across the country. Farm authorities worry about low production despite the high potential for these valuable crops. Kenya spends billions importing cooking oils every year instead of making enough at home.
The government wants farmers to grow more sunflowers, canola, soya, and coconuts to reduce foreign imports. Officials list thirteen regulated crops, including cashew, macadamia, peanuts, and oil palm, under these rules. The trade portal will soon show businesses how to claim their fee exemptions. This policy aims to strengthen food security and manufacturing in the nuts and oils sector.
Dr Bruno Linyiru from the Agriculture and Food Authority announced the exemption aligns with recent finance laws. These crops make up over one percent of the national GDP and create many jobs across the country. Farm authorities worry about low production despite the high potential for these valuable crops. Kenya spends billions importing cooking oils every year instead of making enough at home.
The government wants farmers to grow more sunflowers, canola, soya, and coconuts to reduce foreign imports. Officials list thirteen regulated crops, including cashew, macadamia, peanuts, and oil palm, under these rules. The trade portal will soon show businesses how to claim their fee exemptions. This policy aims to strengthen food security and manufacturing in the nuts and oils sector.
