Kenya approves import of 99,960 tonnes of industrial sugar under EAC duty remission scheme
The increased allocation is expected to support food manufacturers with improved sugar supplies under a reduced 10% import duty for the next 12 months.
KENYA – Kenya has more than doubled its allocation of industrial sugar imports under the East African Community (EAC) Duty Remission Scheme, approving 99,960 tonnes for 17 manufacturers at a concessional import duty of 10% to support the country’s growing manufacturing sector.
The latest allocation, approved for a 12-month period, is more than twice the 43,000 tonnes sanctioned under the previous allocation, reflecting rising demand for industrial sugar used in food processing and other manufacturing activities.
In a gazette notice, EAC Council of Ministers Chairperson Rebecca Kadaga said the reduced import duty had been approved to enable eligible manufacturers to source industrial sugar at preferential tariff rates.
Industrial sugar imports under the EAC Duty Remission Scheme remain subject to strict regulatory requirements. Eligible manufacturers must be registered with Kenya’s Sugar Directorate and maintain valid registration to qualify for the concession.
Except for companies importing sugar exclusively from COMESA member states, manufacturers must also be listed under the EAC Customs Management Duty Remission Scheme through an official government gazette notice before accessing the reduced tariff.
The regulations further require manufacturers to obtain a proforma invoice from suppliers before applying for an Import Declaration Form. Every consignment of refined sugar must also receive prior approval from the Sugar Directorate, regardless of its country of origin.
Applications must include details on the sugar’s country of origin, quantity, quality and price. Where refined sugar is imported from outside the COMESA region, manufacturers are also required to obtain clearance from Kenya’s National Treasury before each shipment is imported.
The increased allocation is expected to help manufacturers secure a more stable supply of industrial sugar, supporting production across Kenya’s food processing and manufacturing industries while addressing growing demand for industrial raw materials.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
