The outbreak of COVID-19 has consequences for entrepreneurs doing business in or with Kenya. The Dutch government provides an overview of useful information intended for everyone involved with agribusiness in Kenya. The agriculture team of the Netherlands embassy can answer further questions via nai-lnv@minbuza.nl.
Update 4 June 2020
- The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has begun paying out Sh.10 billion in Value Added Tax refunds following a presidential directive and release of funds by the National Treasury. In a statement, the Commissioner for Domestic Taxes said that only those businesses entities that have had their refunds claims verified in line with procedures will receive payments. For more information see this news item.
- Following the amendments to the VAT Act, 2013, by the Finance Act, 2019, clarifying that VAT is applicable to supplies made through a digital marketplace, the Kenya Revenue Authority would like to inform members of the public that the draft VALUE ADDED TAX (DIGITAL MARKETPLACE SUPPLY) REGULATIONS, 2020 have been developed. KRA invites companies to send in their comments on the draft before 15 June - Here
- Team Europe, of which the Netherlands is part, are providing a broad package of health and social support measures for the most vulnerable Kenyans in informal settlements and across the country, through a mix of emergency response and longer-term support - see press release.
- World Bank reports on impact of corona on trade and market opportunities in their biannual Africa’s Pulse report - see article.
- TradeMark East Africa has unveiled a Sh2.1 billion emergency fund to "urgently support East Africa and the Horn of Africa to make ports, borders, and critical supply chains safe to trade". See the following media article for more information.
- The Kenya Flower Council estimates that it will take a year for the sector to recover; exports in May rose to 65% from 20% in April and are projected to be at 80% by end of 2020.
- Foreign-based airlines have resumed flying to Kenya as demand for fresh produce rises, although air cargo capacity is insufficient and costs remain high – see media article.
- 267 persons from 20 different EU countries were repatriated to Amsterdam on 28/05/2020 through efforts from EKN and EU in Kenya.
- The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has established a 17-member National Tourism and Hospitality Protocols Taskforce to develop protocols and guidelines in response to COVID-19 pandemic and to support tourism operations as a result thereof – see the news article here.
Source: www.agroberichtenbuitenland.nl