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{
    "id": 812776,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/812776/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 31,
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    "content": "the undersigned, Citizens of the Republic of Kenya, and members of Nairobi Importers and Traders Association; draw the attention of the Senate to the following:- (1) THAT, we fully support the Government’s efforts in the fight against counterfeit and contraband goods in Kenya; (2) THAT, importers and small traders have employed millions of Kenyans and continue to be a major source of employment and a major contributor to the growth of the economy; (3) THAT, most of the imports comprise goods that are essential but not manufactured in Kenya; (4) THAT, we have the following grievances which we wish to have addressed by the Senate:- (a) Infiltration of the import and retail business by foreigners - the space previously occupied by small scale importers and businesses is being gradually taken over by foreigners, predominantly Chinese, who are edging out locally owned businesses and firms from the sector; (b) Undue harassment by government agencies and officials – the small scale importers and traders are subjected to frequent, undue and unnecessary inspections and raids by government officials, both from the national and county government, even where goods have already been inspected and certified at the points of entry. This has adversely affected our ability to undertake our businesses; (c) Blanket destruction of imported goods at the ports of entry – government agencies are increasingly resorting to destruction of entire containers of goods, even where only a few items have been found to be suspect. This has affected small traders who normally pool together and consolidate their efforts to import goods in one container. (d) Flexibility of the Certificate of Conformity regime (COC) – at the moment, local traders and importers are required to produce Certificates of Conformity issued from foreign agents. We propose that this be revised to have in place local certification measures which will also reduce the cost incurred by businesses. (e) Time taken to clear goods at the ports of entry - majority of small scale importers and traders use bank loans to purchase and import goods, on the understanding The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposes only. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor, Senate."
}