NAIROBI, Kenya Nov 12 – The Retail Trade Association of Kenya (RETRAK) has raised concern over the growing trade in illicit cigarettes, alcohol and counterfeit goods, calling for coordinated enforcement to dismantle the supply networks behind the illegal business.
The association is urging the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and National Police Service to adopt a joint enforcement plan, designate a lead agency and publish regular progress reports to strengthen public accountability.
RETRAK Chief Executive Officer Wambui Mbarire said enforcement agencies must move beyond seizures at retail outlets and investigate the suppliers, transporters, financiers and storage facilities involved in the distribution of illicit products.
“Seizing illicit products from a shop is only the beginning. Investigators must establish who supplied the goods, where they were stored, who transported them and who financed the consignment. Following that trail is how we disrupt the networks and prevent the next delivery,” Mbarire said.
The association cited figures highlighting the scale of illicit trade and its impact on public revenue, legitimate businesses and consumers.
A recent Kantar study estimates that illicit cigarettes accounted for 45.1 per cent of Kenya’s cigarette market in 2025, up from 34.1 per cent in 2021. The trade is estimated to have cost the government KSh10.2 billion in excise duty and VAT in 2025…
