Government Halts New Sugar Import Licences to Protect Local Farmers

The government has announced that it will no longer issue new sugar import licences, citing improved local sugar production that is now capable of meeting the country’s demand.

Speaking at Kilimo House on Thursday, August 6, 2026, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the ban on sugar imports will remain in force as the government focuses on strengthening Kenya’s domestic sugar industry.

Kagwe made the announcement during a consultative meeting with sugarcane farmers, emphasizing that limiting sugar imports will protect local growers from unfair competition, boost local production, and support the growth of the country’s sugar sector. He added that the government’s priority is to ensure farmers benefit from increased production while promoting self-sufficiency in sugar manufacturing.