Kenyan furniture manufacturers face potential price hikes and job cuts following the introduction of a new tax on imported wood-based boards in the Finance Act.

• The furniture manufacturers are concerned the tax, introduced without public consultation, could dismantle investments in local production.
• This surprise tax impacts manufacturers who rely on imported wood-based boards as they argue local options do not meet market demands for finishes.
• The potential consequences include increased costs for consumers and a threat to jobs within the industry.