The Kenya Sugar Board (KSB) has issued a directive requiring all individuals and companies involved in sugar re-packaging to register with the regulator by November 17, 2025, or face a ban from operating.
In a public notice released on Thursday, the Board said the move aims to enhance oversight and strengthen consumer protection amid rising concerns over the quality and safety of sugar sold in the market.
Citing Section 61 of the Sugar Act, 2024, and the Sugar (General) Regulations, 2025, KSB stated that no entity will be permitted to repackage sugar for retail sale without official authorization from the regulator.
“All entities engaged in sugar re-packaging are required to register with the Board by the prescribed deadline,” the notice read in part.
According to the Board, the registration drive is part of ongoing reforms to streamline the sugar value chain, improve product traceability, and eliminate illegal operators linked to substandard or adulterated sugar.
“The registration process will ensure that only compliant operators participate in this segment of the sugar market,” KSB said, adding that the measure will also promote fair competition and safeguard legitimate traders from unfair market practices.
Companies and individuals seeking registration must submit their details and relevant documents via the Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) portal. Successful applicants will be vetted and, upon approval, gazetted as licensed operators.
KSB warned that failure to comply will attract sanctions, including suspension or revocation of repackaging rights and possible legal action for persistent violations.
The move comes as the government intensifies efforts to reform the sugar sector, which has long faced challenges such as illicit trade, weak regulation, and market inefficiencies.
Authorities have blamed unregulated repackaging for allowing smuggled or unsafe sugar into the local market a problem that has hurt both consumers and compliant producers.
The Board urged all stakeholders to seek clarification from its Nairobi headquarters or visit its official website for guidance on the registration process.
