{
  "id": 14889927,
  "title": "Kenya cuts construction import taxes on tiles and ceramic sinks in new KRA amendment law",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/16/kenya-cuts-construction-import-taxes-on-tiles-and-ceramic-sinks-in",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-16T06:37:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "People Daily Kenya",
    "slug": "people-daily-kenya",
    "url": "https://peopledaily.digital/business/kenya-cuts-construction-import-taxes-on-tiles-and-ceramic-sinks-in-new-kra-amendment-law"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Kenya has revised its tax laws on imported construction materials, including tiles, ceramic sinks and glass, in an effort to lower building costs, boost local manufacturing and increase the competitiveness of the construction sector. Deputy Chief of Staff Josephat Nanok announced these modifications on October 16, 2026, following President William Ruto's signature of the VAT Amendment and KRA Amendment bills. The changes may impact importers, distributors, property developers and manufacturers, although their consequences on retail prices will depend on businesses' adjustment to the new tax rates. The tax on construction tiles will now be calculated based on square meters instead of weight, with a rate of Ksh400 per square meter. Ceramic sinks, also known as construction fittings, will see a 40% reduction in tax from Ksh50 to Ksh30 per kilogramme. Import tax on float glass will be reduced, allowing East African countries to import glass at a rate similar to domestic production, further supporting construction activity. The changes are part of a broader strategy to encourage affordable housing and private-sector development. However, the extent to which consumers benefit from the reduced rates will depend on various factors, such as freight charges, exchange rates, distribution margins and domestic transport costs. The amendments also aim to strengthen coordination between the Kenya Revenue Authority and the Kenya Ports Authority, linking revenue administration with port operations. For importers, better cooperation with customs could streamline cargo clearance and customs administration. Ultimately, the success of these tax changes will be determined by their ability to lower building costs, promote local production and make housing more affordable.",
  "summary": "Kenya has introduced tax changes targeting imported construction materials, including tiles, ceramic sinks and float glass, in a move aimed at easing building costs, supporting local manufacturing and improving the competitiveness of the construction sector. Deputy Chief of Staff Josephat Nanok outlined the measures on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Eldoret State Lodge, where President […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}