Kenyan Government has resumed the imports of used Textile Trade
The Kenyan Government has allowed the resumption of imports of used clothing, textiles and shoes after they were suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.
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Kenya Resumes the Used Textile Trade Market

The Textile Recycling Association (TRA) and Bureau of International Recycling had presented scientific evidence indicating that such imports are safe, and tried since the pandemic began to persuade the Kenyan government to allow the trade to recommence.

TRA director Alan Wheeler said: “The publication of this protocol is a very significant development which we anticipate will formally allow imports to start again in the weeks to come.   

“While we have been working behind the scenes to engage in conversations with the Kenyan authorities to seek solutions that are mutually beneficial, I think much credit has to be given to the recently formed Mitumba Association of Kenya (MAK), which has made seemingly excellent representations to their Government, and have some really encouraging proposals to help develop their industry and give it the recognition and credibility it deserves.”

Mitumba is a Kenyan term for used clothing and shoes.

Wheeler said he would encourage traders in other countries to look at what has been achieved in Kenya, with a view to forming an association similar to the MAK where these do not exist.

The Kenyan government protocol provides that all used textile shipments into the country shall be subject to inspection and certification under its pre-export verification of conformity to standards requirements, and be presented for inspection at the country of origin in bales for sampling, with re-baling after inspection.

A number of items remain prohibited including used nightwear and underwear, bath towels and indoor footwear.

Srinivasan Perumal is the Chief Marketing Officer at KnitBrain International Pvt Ltd and loves helping source, merchandising, and launch new fashion clothing lines for the fashion brands and clients.

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