Government to release containers held at port and reduce prices

The government has today announced major steps to reduce the costs and challenges faced by businesses and traders in markets around Nairobi after meeting with traders.

Earlier today, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua met with the business community from Gikomba, Eastleigh, and Kamukunji markets where they discussed about issues that were affecting traders like taxes, counterfeit goods, regulations, getting goods through customs, and work permits.

Key changes that were announced after the meeting aimed at improving business operations include;

1. The cost to get containers released from the port has been cut from 3 million to 2.5 million Kenyan shillings.
2. There will now be regular monthly meetings between government officials and traders from 11 different business sectors.
3. A new Trade Development Bill is being finalized that will involve public input.
4. The process for inspecting imported goods by the Kenya Revenue Authority will be streamlined.
5. There will be a single joint certification process for product standards involving both KEBS and ACA.
6. With consultation from traders, ACA is creating protocols for physical inspections of goods.
7. Any seized goods will be released by ACA within 2 weeks after verification.
8. Education programs on standards, counterfeits, and intellectual property rights will be held by ACA, KIPI, KEBS and KRA.
9. Talks with the port authority and shipping lines on reducing demurrage costs.

The Deputy President noted that the government is committed to making it easier and less expensive to do business across Kenya through various reforms.