Kenyan Parliament Debates Tea Tax Levies Amidst Farmer Concerns

Kenya's Tea Industry Under Scrutiny: Parliament Debates Tax Levies NAIROBI, KENYA – June 4, 2025 – A heated exchange took place today in the Kenyan Parliament concerning the challenges faced in reducing taxes and levies on tea. Senator James Murango of Murang'a County directly questioned Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mbadi about the government's progress on this issue. The debate highlights the significant role of the tea industry in Kenya's economy and the concerns of tea farmers regarding taxation burdens. "The government's response has not adequately addressed the concerns of tea farmers," stated Senator Murango, emphasizing the need for more effective measures to alleviate the financial strain on producers. CS Mbadi responded by outlining several government initiatives, including the Tea Act of 2020, which reduced management fees for tea factories. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to address other levies. "Various actions by government entities are ongoing to address the burden of fees and levies in the tea subsector," CS Mbadi explained. The parliamentary debate underscores the ongoing struggle to balance economic growth with the needs of Kenya's tea farmers, a vital part of the nation's agricultural sector and economy. The session's outcome will significantly influence the future of the tea industry in Kenya.