**Title: Kenyan Police Deploy Tear Gas Amid Protests Against Import Duty Hike in Nairobi**
**Nairobi, Kenya** – On Friday, August 28, 2026, police in Nairobi resorted to using tear gas to disperse small-scale traders protesting against a recent increase in import duties. The protests, which saw hundreds of businesses close in central Nairobi, were sparked by a new customs valuation benchmark set by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
The demonstrations brought significant disruption to parts of the capital, as traders expressed their frustrations over the rising cost of living and increased business expenses. Many protesters voiced concerns that the new import duty would severely impact their ability to operate, especially for those relying on consolidated shipments to manage costs.
The KRA's new regulations, which took effect last week, aim to address issues of under-declaration and undervaluation of imported goods. The authority stated that these practices disadvantage compliant businesses and local manufacturers. The revised customs benchmark raises the minimum value for a consolidated 40-foot (12-meter) container from 2.5 million Kenyan shillings (approximately $19,320) to 3.2 million shillings (about $24,700).
Traders argue that the increase in import duties will lead to higher costs for bringing goods into the country, ultimately threatening the viability of small businesses. "We are standing for our citizenship and our right to do business and our right to build our future," said Muturi Kariuki, one of the demonstrators who closed his business to participate in the protests. Others also chose to shut down operations out of safety concerns amid the unrest.
Reporting from the scene, Al Jazeera’s Malcolm Webb noted that the protests reflect a broader dissatisfaction among Kenyans regarding the escalating cost of living. Many citizens feel they are being asked to contribute more while receiving less in return from the government. There is also a prevailing sentiment of mistrust towards the government, with many believing that corruption is at an all-time high.
The KRA clarified that the new minimum customs benchmark is not a fixed value for every container. Importers whose goods exceed the minimum threshold are required to declare the actual worth of their shipments and pay the corresponding duties.
As the protests unfolded, the situation in Nairobi highlighted the growing tensions between small-scale traders and government authorities, amidst a backdrop of economic challenges facing many Kenyans.