KEBS Begins Nationwide Awareness Drive on Standard Levy Order 2025

PHOTO: KEBS Director Finance and strategy Adan Mohammed who represented Ms. Esther Ngari, KEBS Managing Director

NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 13 – The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) have officially begin the nationwide awareness of the Standard Levy Order 2025 and engage in a critical dialogue that will help shape the future of standards in Kenya.

The Standard Levy is a monthly payment that all manufacturers are required to make to KEBS as outlined in the Standards Act, Cap. 496 Section 10B (1), It’s calculated as 0.2% of a company’s monthly turnover, after excluding VAT, excise duty and discounts.

The levy applies to all goods produced or services offered for sale (refer to the schedule within the Levy Order), with an exemption of manufacturers with a turn over of less than Kes. 5 million per annum.

KEBS has always been more than just an agency; it is a pivotal force driving our nation’s march towards quality, safety and integrity, from its inception under the Standards Act, Chapter 496, KEBS has been entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the benchmarks that propel our commerce and industry forward.

Ms Esther Ngari, Managing Director Kenya Bureau of Standards in her speech delivered in absentia by Director Finance and Strategy Adan Mohammed reflected on the evolution of Kenyan standards urging stakeholders to take a moment to acknowledge the groundwork laid by past administrations.

“Three decades ago, a visionary Cabinet Secretary initiated the Standards Levy Order of 1990, which was a turning point for our nation’s trade landscape, This order marked the beginning of a journey towards creating a competitive and robust market, Your presence here signifies a collective commitment to ensuring that our standards meet the needs and aspirations of every Kenyan”, said Ms. Ngari.

However, they noted that they recognize the 1990 framework is no longer sufficient to address the complexities of our modern economy as the world has changed dramatically since then.

“We must adapt to the rapid technological innovations, the rise of digital commerce, and the evolving dynamics of global supply chains”, She added.

The Standards Levy Order, 2025 is designed to reflect these changes and ensure that our standards framework is not only relevant but also transformational.

“Kenyan 2010 Constitution emphasises the importance of transparency and public involvement in governance particularly concerning financial undertakings the principle guided us in seeking public input during the formulation of the Standards Levy Order, 2025”.

“We believe in the power of collective voices and insights and today’s forum is an opportunity for all stakeholders to engage meaningfully in shaping a better standards system for our country Kenya’s growth is a narrative we all share, reflecting our resilience and collective ambitions”.

Additionally, KEBS notes that the Standards Levy Order, 2025 is not merely about implementing new regulations; it’s about fostering a culture of excellence and innovation across industries.

“The journey ahead is both exciting and complex, transformation is not a quick race; it requires strategic thinking, patience and unity, this participatory process is essential, as it invites diverse opinions and perspectives to enrich the outcome”.

“As we engage in today’s discussions, let’s be bold and forward-thinking your insights will be invaluable as we refine and implement the Levy Order together, let’s capture the essence of our shared dreams and challenges, ensuring that this framework is not just a collection of mandates but a reflection of our collective aspirations”.

Manufacturers have also been urged to adhere to the provisions of the new Levy Order as a statutory requirement.

Today’s gathering is a pivotal moment in the journey towards a Kenya that embodies promise, stringent standards, and enhanced global competitiveness.

“As we gather here today may our discussions echo the hopes and well-being of our nation as we collaboratively shape the future of standards in Kenya, Let us seize this opportunity to script a transformative vision that will carry our nation forward”.