Kenya Eases Restriction on non-GMO Yellow Maize Imports

The Government of Kenya has relaxed its conditions on yellow maize imports by allowing maize that is 99.1% non-GMO from the previously stipulated 100% non-GMO.

In a Gazette notice dated June 10, 2022, National Treasury CS Ukur Yatani exempted duty on imported raw materials used to manufacture animal and chicken feed.

“The companies listed in the first column of this Schedule may import the specified animal feed raw materials in quantities set out in the subsequent columns for use in the manufacture of animal and chicken feed,” said Yatani.

Companies listed in the schedule include Bidco Africa Limited and MS Cateress Milling Company Limited which will bring in the highest amount of yellow maize, 50,000 tonnes and 40,000 tonnes respectively.

The companies will be allowed to import 341,950 tonnes of yellow maize to be used in the making of animal feeds in order to reduce pressure on white maize.

“The total import shall not exceed targets as set out in this schedule,” said Yatani in the Gazette notice.

White maize which is mostly for human consumption has been faced by shortages, forcing Kenyans to import the cereal.