- Nairobi traders strike over rising taxes and import costs.
- Protesters march to KRA over the new cargo valuation.
- Traders warn higher costs could push up consumer prices.
Small-scale traders in Nairobi have launched a strike and marched to Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) offices to protest against rising taxes and import costs, saying the new measures are raising the cost of doing business and threatening their livelihoods.
Traders from major markets, including Gikomba, Kamukunji and Nyamakima, joined the demonstrations on August 28, 2026, demanding government intervention over the rising cost of importing goods into the country.
The protests follow an increase in the customs value for general shared cargo from Ksh 2.5 million to Ksh 3.2 million, representing an additional Ksh 700,000. Small importers who rely on shared containers have raised concerns that the higher valuation will significantly increase the taxes and charges they pay.
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Unlike large importers who can bring in full containers, many small traders share container space to reduce transportation and importation costs. They argue that the new customs benchmarks will erode their profit margins and make it more difficult to compete in the market.
The traders say the higher customs value, combined with other taxes, fees and government charges, is making it increasingly expensive to operate their businesses. Several businesses in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) remained closed as traders participated in the strike, disrupting normal commercial activities.
The traders have warned that the additional import costs could ultimately be passed on to consumers through higher prices. They are calling on the government and KRA to review the new measures, saying the increased costs could hurt small businesses and further strain consumers who are already facing high living expenses.
By Bernard Magada
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