Traders Warn Tobacco Bill Could Fuel Illicit Market Surge

Business traders across Kenya have stepped up opposition to the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024, cautioning that certain proposals could unintentionally expand the illicit tobacco and nicotine market.Speaking in Nairobi, traders said the proposed ban on flavoured products would significantly affect legitimate businesses while creating opportunities for unregulated dealers.

They argue that removing popular legal products from shelves could push consumers toward contraband alternatives.Similar concerns have been raised by traders in Mombasa, Eldoret, and Nakuru.

The business community maintains that banning flavours would create a market vacuum likely to be exploited by illegal operators.Instead of introducing new restrictions, the traders are urging the Senate of Kenya to prioritise strict enforcement of existing laws, particularly those prohibiting the sale of tobacco and nicotine products to minors.

The Bill is currently headed to the Committee Stage in the Parliament of Kenya, where senators are expected to review and possibly amend key provisions.Lawmakers including Tabitha Mutinda, Jackson Mandago, Karen Nyamu, and Edwin Sifuna are anticipated to take part in the deliberations as debate over the proposed amendments intensifies.