Nairobi traders staged a protest in the city's Central Business District on August 28, 2026, over a new customs tax policy introduced by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). The protest followed the KRA's decision to increase the minimum customs valuation benchmark for a 40-foot container of general cargo from Sh2.5 million to Sh3.2 million. Small-scale traders argued the change would increase their operational costs and reduce profitability.
During the demonstration, police used tear gas to disperse the crowd as traders marched from the Archives to Times Tower, where they planned to present a petition. The KRA clarified that no new business tax was introduced, but traders remained concerned about the impact of the revised customs limit on their businesses.
The protest turned violent in parts of the CBD, with reports of clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. The KRA commissioner for customs and border control defended the policy, stating it was aimed at improving revenue collection and aligning with international trade standards.
Traders continue to demand clarity on how the new benchmark will affect their operations, with some calling for further dialogue with the KRA to address their concerns.
