Tea factory directors in Murang’a County have voiced serious concerns that the proposed Tea Amendment Bill, 2023 could negatively impact farmers' earnings and the sector's progress.

• Directors warned of significant farmer losses if the bill proceeds without careful consideration, citing a potential increase in the management fee from 1.5 per cent to 2 per cent.
• Over 80 tea directors from factories under the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) met with local Members of Parliament to discuss the bill's implications.
• They argue the amendment undermines gains made under the Tea Act 2020, particularly regarding the Direct Settlement System (DSS), which they fear could jeopardise over Sh 2 billion in annual forex earnings.