Why used car imports are facing curbs

Isuzu East Africa Limited MD Rita Kavashe, Trade CS Lee Kinyanjui, PS Juma Mukhwana and Japan Ambassador to Kenya Hiroshi Matsuura during the launch of the locally assembled Isuzu Mu-X Luxury SUV in Nairobi on February 2, 2026. [Kanyiri Wahito, Standard]

The government is sieving through public participation feedback on the National Automotive Bill, 2025, with the document expected to come into effect by June this year.

The Bill, whose purpose is to encourage purchase of locally manufactured vehicles, will in part put restrictions on importation of second-hand automobiles and provide modalities on the end of life cycle of a car.