In efforts to enhance intra-trade within the East African Community (EAC), Kenya has suggested the elimination of excise duty on certain agricultural products. During a pre-budget assembly, EAC finance ministers concurred on several customs adjustments aimed at safeguarding regional industries. Kenya's Treasury Cabinet Secretary, Njuguna Ndung'u, announced the proposition to abolish the 25 percent excise duty on eggs, potatoes, and onions imported from EAC partner states, contingent upon compliance with EAC rules of origin. This initiative, aimed at fostering trade within the EAC, follows discussions between Kenyan President William Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, considering Uganda's significant egg exports to Kenya.
Furthermore, the EAC ministers endorsed custom measures to augment the competitive edge of local manufactures, including temporary exemptions from the Common External Tariff and duty remission for materials utilized in local production.
Source: theeastafrican.co.ke