Nairobi Traders Arrested, Tear-Gassed Over Sh700,000 Import Cost Increase as KRA Customs Valuation Sparks Dispute - August 2026

Nairobi traders were arrested and tear-gassed as protests erupted over a Sh700,000 increase in import costs, with demonstrations also held by traders in the Central Business District against new tax impositions. Traders are clashing with the Kenya Revenue Authority over a new customs valuation benchmark, warning of higher costs as a result of the policy changes. Separately, traders in Kenya are raising alarms regarding a recently proposed tobacco bill that has sparked widespread debate and apprehension among those involved in the tobacco trade. The increased financial burden from these various impositions has prompted traders to take to the streets in protest, with law enforcement responding with arrests and tear gas.