How cross-border illicit beer trade is hurting revenue collections in Kenya and Uganda

The cross-border beer bmuggling is hurting revenue collections in Kenya and Uganda and has according to local authorities infringed on adequate provision of social amenities that is crucial for the community development.

The investigations revealed that the vice that has been going over the years is escalating amidst little attention by both nations, leading to substantial consequences such as reported low development in the communities neighbouring both nations.

Locals say that the Ugandan beer is preferred to the Kenyan one because it’s much cheaper. At times several Kenyans cross into Uganda to consume this beer before crossing back into Kenya. As a result Kenya is losing up to USD$ 3.6m in tax evasion due to illicit trade.

The story also explains how the cross-border beer smuggling has not only affected revenue collection from both the Uganda Revenue Authority in terms of excise duty from exports, and the Kenyan Revenue Authority in terms of income tax, but has also led to multiple injuries among those nabbed as they engage in the trade interfacing with the cross-fire from security and anti-smuggling forces.