Taxes are not merely instruments for raising revenue. They are also policy tools that governments use to influence behaviour. Excise duties can discourage the consumption of products associated...
By
Eric Kasina
Climate action enthusiast, Communications specialist
Windward Communications Consultancy
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has issued a circular removing excise duty on bottled water. Consumers battling the high cost of living may welcome the prospect of lower prices, and policymakers may view it as a measure to ease economic pressure. However, beyond the immediate economic gains lies a bigger question: what does this decision mean for Kenya's fight against plastic pollution?
The changes took effect on July 1, 2026, after the Finance Act amended the First Schedule to the Excise Duty Act, Cap 472.
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Kioo Limited warns Kenya’s proposed 35 percent excise duty on glass bottles could reignite an EAC trade dispute.
This follows the reduction of VAT on fuel from 16 per cent to eight per cent as part of measures aimed at cushioning consumers…
The government’s determination to widen the tax base reflects an attempt to curb excessive borrowing and restore fiscal stability.
