The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has directed all manufacturers in the country to remit the annual Standards Levy for the 2025/2026 financial year in line with the Standards Act, Cap 496 Laws of Kenya.
According to Legal Notice No. 136 issued on 6th August 2025, all manufacturers are required to pay a levy equivalent to 0.2percent of their monthly turnover, excluding VAT, excise duty, and discounts.
The levy, however, is capped at a maximum of KSh 4 million per annum.KEBS stated that payments must be made through the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) before the 20th day of the succeeding month, failure to which a penalty of five percent per month will apply on the outstanding amount.
“The levy is collected to facilitate standardization and ensure the quality and safety of products manufactured in Kenya,” the Bureau said in the notice.
Manufacturers who fail to comply with the directive not only risk penalties but also commit an offence under the Act.
KEBS further emphasized that all manufacturing entities whether new or existing must register with the agency by filling Form SL1 available through the KEBS Information Management System (KIMS).
KEBS categorized manufacturers into various sectors including building and construction, textiles, mechanical and electrical engineering, food and agriculture, and chemicals.
Activities such as quarrying, textile processing, metal fabrication, food processing, and pharmaceutical manufacturing all fall under the levy structure.
