Kenya’s Tanners Association wants the government to remove the 10% export levy imposed on tanned and crust hides and skins. Chairman of the association, Robert Njoka said that the challenges faced by the leather industry would be made easier if the export levy is reduced, since it will help local traders.
Addressing the media in Nairobi, Njoka said he does not want the leather industry to go down since it is one of President Uhuru Kenyatta's “big four” agenda.
"What we produce locally should not have duty so that the market can be good for all traders. Let’s get a balanced market so that we encourage local traders,” Njoka said.
He added that the Kenya Leather Development Council (KLDC) should advise the government on its hides and skins policies, to create a conducive environment for traders to do business.
“If a few amendments are made to the process of implementing of policies, there will be a few challenges, but it should help the government control the smuggling of hides to Nigeria,” he said.
