Retail and hospitality traders in Mombasa are pushing back against Kenya’s Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024, warning the proposed reforms could accelerate illicit trade and undermine legitimate businesses. Speaking at a press briefing, business owners cited Kenya Revenue Authority estimates suggesting more than 50% of excisable goods in the market are already illicit or non-compliant, including cigarettes and other regulated products. Traders argue the bill, sponsored by Senator Catherine Mumma, risks worsening the situation by introducing additional restrictions such as a proposed ban on flavored nicotine products, including vapes and nicotine pouches.
Industry representatives said while protecting minors is important, further product restrictions could drive consumers toward unregulated markets, eroding tax revenue and threatening licensed operators. Coast Bar Owners Association Chairman Patrick Kabundu warned that removing legal product options could create supply gaps quickly filled by black market suppliers, while traders urged lawmakers to focus on enforcing existing laws, including Kenya’s ban on tobacco sales to individuals under 18, rather than introducing new regulatory measures they say could harm businesses and government revenue.
