Traders Arrested, Tear-Gassed Protesting Sh700,000 Import Cost Increase - August 2026

Nairobi traders have been arrested and tear-gassed during protests erupting over a Sh700,000 increase in import costs. Traders in the Central Business District staged a demonstration against new tax impositions, voicing grievances over the increased financial burden. Meanwhile, traders are raising significant concerns regarding a recently proposed tobacco bill that has sparked widespread debate and apprehension. Additionally, traders clashed with the Kenya Revenue Authority over a new customs valuation benchmark, warning of higher costs for imported goods.