KEBS Lifts Ban on Used Textile and Footwear Imports

Following the declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) issued a public notice on the 31st March 2020 temporarily suspending importation of used textiles and shoes (Mitumba) as a precautionary measure to mitigate against the risk of infection.  

On the 16th August 2020, KEBS issued a press release announcing the ban has now been lifted on the import of used textiles and shoes.  

This return to normal comes with additional safety measures such as cleaning and fumigation of used textiles and shoes at the country of origin before baling, and at wholesale or retail stores (including surrounding areas) every day at closure of business.  

The new protocols also require that all importers of used textiles and shoes must register with KEBS and identify the country of origin of the bales to enable their traceability. 

Therefore, if you are importing used textiles and/or shoes into Kenya, Cotecna will happily guide you through the needed verifications process and issue your Certificate of Conformity (COC).  

To request a free quote, or to learn more about the certification process, please contact us.

About Cotecna

For over 50 years, we have been supporting agriculture, food and pharma, minerals and metals, and consumer products supply chains all over the world. We provide testing, inspection, and certification services to help our clients navigate evolving regulations, ensure product compliance, and support their sustainability journey.