Manufacturers struggle under high taxation and energy costs

Workers making garments at an EPZ facility in Athi River, Machakos County. [David Gichuru, Standard]

Manufacturers have petitioned Parliament to address the high taxes imposed on industry, saying the costs are unsustainable.

The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) last week said the taxes are taking up to 55 per cent of their income, which has impacted the sector negatively.

In a meeting with the Committee on Trade, Industry and Co-operatives on the country's business climate, KAM Chief Executive Anthony Mwangi said the pressing need for government intervention is to decrease the burden on manufacturers by reducing electricity costs.