Kenya considers duty-free maize imports amid production shortfall

Kenya is considering a proposal to allow the duty-free importation of three million tonnes of white maize to combat a sharp decline in domestic production and rising food prices. The Cereal Millers Association (CMA) has requested a nine-month duty-free window to help lower costs, widen sourcing options, and maintain affordable maize flour prices for consumers.

Domestic production has hit a seven-year low, with the Kenya Food Security Steering Group projecting a maize shortfall of approximately 18.9 million 90-kilogramme bags. While the projected harvest is 27.1 million bags, the annual domestic requirement stands at roughly 46 million bags.

Concerns regarding food security are compounded by reports of speculative hoarding. In coastal counties, maize stocks held by traders reached 115 per cent of normal levels, while farmer reserves dropped to 58 per cent. Additionally, forecast floods between October and December threaten to further disrupt food supplies and transportation.

To bridge the supply gap, the government is facilitating the importation of up to 25 million bags of maize, a process intended to be undertaken by the private sector. Regional sourcing options, including Zambia and Tanzania, have been identified as potential suppliers.