This archive report was first published on 6 July 2019.
Published on July 6, 2019, the leather industry in Kenya is facing numerous challenges, including a 10% export levy imposed on tanned and crust hides and skins.
Robert Njoka, chairman of the Tanners Association of Kenya, has called on the government to remove the levy, which he believes will help local traders access the market.
Speaking in Nairobi, Njoka emphasized the importance of the leather industry, which is part of President Uhuru's Big Four agenda.
“The Government should adjust the duty. What we produce locally should be duty-free so that the market can be good for all traders,” Njoka said.
He also suggested that the Kenya Leather Development Council advise the government on hides and skins policies to create a conducive environment for traders.
“If few amendments are done and policies implemented, the challenges will be few, but the government should also control the smuggling out of hides to Nigeria,” Njoka said.
Board member Douglas Mokua echoed Njoka's sentiments, urging traders to produce quality hides and skins, citing Rwanda as a model for good quality material.
“70 to 90 percent of our products go to China and India market where they are consumed,” Mokua said.
