Tata exit order risks Sh7.4bn trade, tests Ruto’s industrial plan

Kenyan President William Ruto has directed Tata Chemicals to cease its operations in the country, stating that the Indian company's presence has not provided sufficient value to Kenya. Two new companies will take over the assets currently managed by Tata Chemicals, according to Reuters. This decision comes after Tata Chemicals suspended activities at the Magadi Soda factory and halted exports of soda ash in late July, following instructions from the Kenyan government.

President Ruto criticized Tata Chemicals for failing to build any factories in Kajiado, the region where the company operates, questioning whether Kenya should be subservient to foreign companies. The company has not yet commented on President Ruto's move. Kenya has been extracting soda ash for over a century, with Tata acquiring the operation from Brunner Mond Ltd. in 2005.

The government has requested Tata Chemicals Magadi Ltd. to halt operations due to unpaid royalties and non-compliance with regulatory requirements. Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku further stated that the company's mining rights had expired in 2023. Any future company granted rights to extract soda ash in Kenya will be expected to establish large-scale processing facilities for glass and chemical manufacturing.