Government clears way for importation of duty free rice
State says move triggered by shortages due to increased cost of production...
✨ Key Highlights
The Kenyan government has authorized the duty-free importation of 490,000 metric tonnes of Grade 1 white milled rice. This directive, issued by National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, aims to address shortages driven by increased production costs and adverse weather.
- Importation is permitted until November 30, 2026.
- The decision follows recommendations from the Minister for Agriculture and Livestock and aims to supplement dwindling local production, which barely lasts two months.
- Each consignment must meet Kenyan and international standards and include a Certificate of Conformity from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KeBS).
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Court Orders Government to Account for Duty-Free Rice Imports Within 7 Days - July 2026
The High Court in Kisumu has ordered top government officials to account for Kenya's duty-free rice importation program within seven days after Ahero rice farmers challenged the policy. The government has authorized the duty-free importation of 490,000 metric tonnes of Grade 1 white milled rice, with this directive issued by National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi aiming to address shortages driven by increased production costs and adverse weather. Separately, President William Ruto has officially signed the Sovereign Wealth Fund Bill, 2026 into law, establishing a dedicated fund for Kenya's mineral and petroleum riches and prohibiting government from borrowing against future generation billions. These stories reflect government actions to address commodity shortages and manage national resources.
