East African authorities intensify crackdown on counterfeit spirits

Governments and industry leaders in East Africa are intensifying efforts to combat the proliferation of counterfeit and illicit spirits to protect public health and secure tax revenue.

In Tanzania, Industry and Trade Minister Judith Kapinga announced a heightened enforcement stance to safeguard consumers from unsafe beverages and protect legitimate manufacturers from unfair competition. The ministry plans to launch public awareness campaigns to help consumers identify genuine products and will increase field inspections to ensure producers adhere to mandatory quality and hygiene standards.

In Kenya, the challenge remains significant, with estimates suggesting illegal alcohol accounts for approximately 60 percent of liquor consumed. The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) highlighted that counterfeit alcohol costs the country roughly Sh14.5 billion in lost tax revenue. While state agents in Nairobi have seized illicit goods and fake excise stamps valued at nearly Sh790 million, experts suggest that successful prosecution requires improved digital evidence management and expanded forensic testing capacity to prevent cases from collapsing in court.