NAIROBI, Kenya — August 28, 2026 — Small-scale traders in Nairobi staged protests after changes to Kenya's import duty benchmarks increased the reference value used for certain consolidated cargo shipments.

The Kenya Revenue Authority implemented the revised benchmark on August 20, raising the minimum customs reference value for a consolidated 40-foot container from KSh2.5 million to KSh3.2 million.

The authority says the changes are intended to address under-declaration and undervaluation of imported goods, practices that can disadvantage compliant businesses and local manufacturers.

However, traders say the higher benchmark will increase the cost of clearing goods and place additional pressure on small businesses that depend on consolidated imports.

Reuters reported that hundreds of businesses in central Nairobi closed during the protest, with some traders participating directly and others shutting their premises over safety concerns.

The dispute highlights continuing tensions between tax enforcement measures and the financial pressures facing small and medium-sized businesses.

Traders are calling for further engagement with authorities over the implementation and impact of the revised customs benchmark.