Kenya’s Communications Authority (CA) has proposed new licensing fees for vendors and distributors of mobile phones, car trackers, and low-power communication devices, a move that could disrupt small businesses struggling with high taxes and low consumer purchasing power.
Under the new rules:
• Only licensed manufacturers and distributors can import and sell these devices.
• A one-time license fee of $1,937 (KES 250,000) will be required, plus an annual charge of 0.4% of gross turnover.
• Local phone manufacturers will be exempt but can only sell to licensed distributors.
The government argues that the policy will curb counterfeit devices, improve network security, and reduce e-waste, but small business owners warn it will raise prices and push informal traders out of business. Many fear that the black market will thrive due to weak enforcement, undermining the intended benefits.
Read the full news here: TechCabal