Kenya's new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations are sparking fears of significant price hikes for consumers and potential disruptions to supply chains. Following a recent court order allowing their enforcement, businesses warn that an import fee charged on every product entering the country will be passed on, potentially increasing consumer goods prices by over 300 percent in some sectors.

• The National Environment Management Authority (Nema) is rolling out the EPR framework, which makes producers responsible for their products' entire lifecycle, including waste management.
• Industry bodies like Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organisation (Kepro) and individual businesses like Naivas Supermarket are pushing for revisions to avoid economic consequences, particularly regarding a Sh150 import fee for "finished products."
• While Nema's Director of Enforcement Dr. Ayub Macharia claims adequate consultations, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) report a lack of awareness and fear the new fees could force them to close.