Kenya: Bat Seeks Talks Over Tobacco Law

Source from:  AllAfrica.com 09/25/2010

Nairobi - Cigarette manufacturer British American Tobacco Kenya is set for a meeting with the Ministry of Trade with hopes of having some of the industry regulations refined. In its current form, the Tobacco Control Act, 2007, "is choking us" claims the firm. BAT board chairman Evanson Mwaniki said the company would be seeking audience with the hope that some prohibitive clauses would be reviewed. "We believe that some of these regulations have shifted focus from matters of public health to trade restriction. It has now criminalised a legitimate trade in the tobacco industry," he said. Initially coming into force as a mechanism to control the industry, the regulations have continued to be a landmine for manufacturers. Apart from a hawk-eyed implementation agency, there have been complaints of discrimination by the team. BAT has previously taken issue with the sections dealing with advertising and promotion. It has held that its rivals have continued to advertise and promote their brands unabated. Trade minister Chirau Ali Mwakwere in response said he would have a meeting with them. "It might not be a single meeting but we shall strive to ensure that we provide a conducive business environment for all. I will also have to engage with other government organs to find the best solution," said Mr Mwakwere. Enditem