Kenya has taken a significant step towards bolstering its industrial sector as eight local firms receive clearance to import 43,000 metric tonnes of sugar under a special tax scheme facilitated by the East Africa Community (EAC). This move aims to support the production of various industrial products, including soda, milk drinks, and chocolate. Among the recipients of the clearance, Coca-Cola Beverages Kenya Limited received approval to import 20,000 tonnes of industrial sugar, primarily designated for carbonated drinks and juice production. Equator Bottlers secured clearance for 10,000 tonnes, while Trufoods Limited, among others, was granted approval for varying quantities to be used in the production of jams, marmalades, sauces, spices, and chocolate. The importation of industrial sugar under the EAC remission scheme is subjected to stringent regulations, ensuring uninterrupted production across various consumer goods and contributing to both the local economy and the broader East African market.
Meanwhile, a section of sugarcane farmers have expressed their frustrations with the Agriculture and Food Authority, accusing it of siding with cartels to exploit them. The farmers cited a recent announcement by the interim Sugarcane Pricing Committee that reduced sugarcane buying prices to $38.6 from $45.79 per tonne.