September 8, 2004

Kenya's Farmers Call For Higher Tax On Wheat Imports

Kenya's farmers want duty on wheat raised to keep out cheap imported grain.

The Kenya National Federation of Agricultural Producers (Kenfap) said yesterday that this would protect farmers from unfair competition.

Nakuru Kenfap branch chairman Samuel Gitonga said wheat prices had dropped after 30,000 tons of wheat were imported recently.

"Farmers are now getting about Sh1,700 for a 90kg bag of wheat, down from Sh2,200," Mr Gitonga said.

In spite of Kenya having signed regional trade agreements, it had the duty to protect farmers by raising duty to curb the dumping of inferior grain.

The official said more wheat was arriving in the country during harvesting season.