The Principal Secretary for the State Department of Industry, Juma Mukhwana, has declared the government's unwavering commitment to restructuring the taxation system, with a focus on fostering increased participation in the manufacturing sector.

Mukhwana made this announcement during a visit to the East African Cables (EAC) headquarters in Nairobi.

In an effort to stimulate the growth of the manufacturing industry, Mukhwana highlighted the state's determination to implement strategies that would catalyze the sector's expansion. He stressed the significance of formulating policies that safeguard the local market from the influx of substandard goods.

"Importing products from abroad does not alleviate the cost of living. Every import signifies a job opportunity shipped overseas," Mukhwana asserted during his visit.

"The key to lowering the cost of living lies in producing and selling most of our consumed products locally," he added, emphasizing the pivotal role of local manufacturing in creating jobs and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for citizens.

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Accompanying the Principal Secretary was a delegation from the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, where discussions were held regarding the challenges faced by the Kenyan manufacturing sector and the government's ongoing initiatives to address them.

The talks covered issues such as illicit trade, unfavourable taxation policies, and high electricity tariffs.

EAC Managing Director, Paul Muigai, expressed gratitude for the valuable platform provided by the Principal Secretary's visit. 

"Our sector is ready to significantly contribute to national progress through the production of high-quality products," Muigai stated.

"These not only align with governmental goals like affordable housing but also bolster the economy through job creation and tax generation."

The government's renewed commitment to reshaping the taxation system is seen as a strategic move to encourage Kenyan businesses to invest in local production, ultimately contributing to economic growth and job creation.

As the manufacturing sector gears up for potential reforms, the spotlight remains on policies that will foster a vibrant and self-sustaining industrial landscape within the country.