The rules apply to all suppliers, requiring exporters to Kenya to update packaging and compliance to keep market access. / Credit: Leg Leggo via Shutterstock

Kenya’s updated plastic packaging regulations set out tighter controls on how plastic materials are produced, imported and managed across the supply chain.

Kenya’s updated plastic packaging regulations are now in force, setting stricter rules for manufacturers, importers and distributors. The measures, introduced under Legal Notice 181 of 2024, apply to plastic carrier bags, flat bags and plastic films, including packaging used on imported goods.

The changes place new compliance demands on both local businesses and international suppliers entering the Kenyan market.

The regulations form part of Kenya’s wider efforts to control plastic waste and improve recycling. They introduce a structured system covering licensing, waste responsibility and product standards across the plastic packaging value chain. 

Licensing and supply chain controls

The new Kenya plastic packaging regulations require companies to obtain licences before producing, importing, exporting or using plastic packaging materials.

This applies to manufacturers, retailers and logistics operators. Businesses are only allowed to source packaging from licensed suppliers, which increases oversight across supply chains.

For global suppliers, this means market access now depends on meeting Kenya’s regulatory requirements. Imported goods with plastic packaging must comply with the same rules as locally produced items. Non-compliance can lead to penalties under existing environmental laws.

Extended producer responsibility rules

A key feature of the regulations is extended producer responsibility (EPR).

Companies that place plastic packaging on the Kenyan market must take responsibility for its waste management. This includes setting up or joining systems to collect, recycle or safely dispose of plastic materials. 

Businesses must submit EPR plans to the authorities, outlining how they will manage packaging waste and meet recovery targets. They are also required to report regularly on the volumes of plastic packaging introduced and collected.

These requirements reflect a global trend where governments shift waste management costs from public systems to producers.

Labelling, recycled content and reporting

The plastic packaging compliance framework also introduces clear product standards. Packaging must include labels showing the producer, material type and relevant identification codes. This improves traceability and supports recycling processes.

In some cases, companies must meet minimum recycled content requirements. Businesses are also required to keep detailed records of production, imports and usage, and submit annual reports to regulators.

For importers, packaging materials must be declared at entry points, adding another level of control.

Implications for international trade

The Kenya plastic packaging regulations 2024 are likely to influence how companies design, source and manage packaging for goods sold in East Africa. Global suppliers may need to adjust materials, labelling and compliance processes to meet the new standards.

The rules align Kenya with wider international efforts to reduce plastic waste and increase accountability in packaging.

For businesses operating across borders, the changes highlight the need to track evolving environmental regulations in key growth markets. By Mohamed Dabo, Packaging Gateway