The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has increased the minimum customs valuation for a consolidated 40-foot container to Sh3.2 million, a 28 percent rise from the previous Sh2.5 million benchmark, impacting small traders who rely on shared container space.

• The new benchmark took effect on August 20.
• The KRA states the adjustment aims to combat undervaluation and ensure fair competition, not target small traders.
• This revision, the first in approximately six years, addresses changes in economic conditions and import values.

In a burgeoning trade dispute, Canada is exploring economic leverage against the United States, particularly targeting industries vital to several American states.

• Canada is the top customer for 26 US states and a top three customer for 45 out of 50 states.
• Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is finalizing retaliatory duties on goods like steel, dairy, and electronics.
• Key leverage points include Canada's significant role in supplying US energy imports and critical minerals like potash.

Meat processor Farmers Choice Limited has lost a tax appeal after a tribunal ruled it filed its challenge against a Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) tariff decision outside the statutory deadline.

• The Tax Appeals Tribunal struck out Farmers Choice's appeal, upholding the KRA's decision on the classification of an imported sausage ingredient.
• The dispute involved imported consignments on October 15, 2024, with KRA reclassifying an ingredient from a general food preparation tariff to one for food and beverage manufacturing, impacting applicable taxes.
• Farmers Choice filed its tribunal appeal on January 16, 2026, significantly past the 45-day statutory deadline provided under the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA).