Registered scrap metal dealers across the country will be required to apply online for their import and export permits starting this week.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 11, the Scrap Metal Council (SMC) announced that dealers should submit their applications through the Trade Facilitation Platform (TFP) from Saturday, March 15, 2024.
According to the SMC, the council will offer refresher training on the automated processes and clearance protocols upon request.
"The Scrap Metal Council (SMC), in collaboration with the Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade), wishes to notify all our stakeholders of the automation of imports/exports processes of scrap metal consignments," he stated.
"In this regard, effective Saturday, March 15, 2025, the Import/Export permit requirements will take effect in line with the Scrap Metal Council Act 2015 and related regulations, Upon registration and licensing by the Scrap Metal Council, dealers shall be required to apply for Export/Import permits through the Trade Facilitation Platform," he added.
The council further asserted that automating the process would be fundamental in streamlining trade operations, enhancing compliance, and improving efficiency in the scrap metal industry.
Kenya exports approximately 13,000 tonnes of scrap metal annually, making a significant contribution to the country's economy.
In December last year, the Council's Chairperson, Francis Mugo, revealed that there had been a significant decline in vandalism and illegal scrap metal exports following enhanced regulations in the sector.
Mugo highlighted that curbing smuggling had, in turn, stabilised the supply of scrap metal for local steel production, thereby boosting industrial output, creating jobs, and contributing to Kenya’s economic growth.
“We’ve engaged extensively with scrap metal associations, steel millers, and other stakeholders to address their challenges and build a more stable industry,” Mugo stated.
Earlier this year, scrap metal stakeholders strongly opposed the government's move to merge over 40 state corporations, including the SMC, arguing that the decision could potentially reverse the progress made and lead to an increase in illegal activities, such as the theft of railway and Kenya Power metals.
"Give us back the Scrap Metal Council so that we can continue doing a better job in a better environment. This industry is only growing because of the regulations the council has put in place—we don't want illegal activities to return," said Evans Ng’ang’a, Chairman of the Scrap Metal Dealers Association.
