Kenya Bans Import of Second-Hand Clothing to Boost Local Textiles

The Kenyan government has indefinitely suspended imports of second-hand clothes (mitumba) effective June 2024 to protect local textile manufacturers. The move, under the Micro and Small Enterprises Act, follows years of lobbying by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers. Over 50,000 tonnes of used clothing were imported annually, undercutting local producers. The ban aims to revive mills like Rivatex and create 200,000 jobs in cotton-to-garment value chains. Enforcement will be led by KEBS and Customs. While consumer groups warn of short-term price spikes, the Trade Cabinet Secretary assured that locally made alternatives are ready, with new factories in Eldoret and Nairobi scaling production.