New inspection requirements to increase cost of tyres in Kenya

Kenyan tyre importers are preparing for higher costs after the Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs) introduced destination inspection charges, potentially raising consumer prices by up to 15%. The phased implementation requires imported tyres to undergo conformity assessment and certification at ports of entry, with testing costs varying depending on the country of manufacture, including China, Japan, South Africa, and the EU. The Shippers Council for Eastern Africa estimates that these additional inspection, testing, and certification costs will be passed on to consumers, leading to a 10-15% increase in tyre prices. Industry calls for faster testing processes and longer validity of existing test reports to reduce costs.