KEBS adopts new standards to boost Kenyan cosmetics exports
These measures address prior export rejections caused by non-aligned local certifications, promoting seamless regional trade.
KENYA – Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has implemented 11 new harmonized standards, enabling local cosmetics to penetrate East African Community (EAC) markets more effectively.
The standards target products such as aftershave lotions, baby oils, body oils, deodorants, antiperspirants, glycerine, hair sprays, lip balms, lip glosses, lipsticks, and shea butter.
They regulate critical elements, including raw material specifications, heavy metal thresholds, and microbiological limits, to safeguard consumer health and product integrity.
Bernard Njiraini, former Managing Director, Kenya Bureau of Standards, stated, “The new standards will facilitate trade in cosmetic products produced within Partner States in the East African Community by use of harmonized standards.”
“They will also ensure the quality, fitness for use and safety of the cosmetics to the consumers by controlling specific crucial parameters such as raw material requirements, and limits for heavy metal and microbiological contaminants.”
Previously, exporters encountered obstacles when products certified only to Kenyan norms failed regional scrutiny; these uniform EAC standards eliminate such issues.
According to KEBS, cosmetics must adhere to global Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), enhancing trust and enabling Kenyan firms to compete in Eastern and Central Africa’s key economic centres.
Kenya’s beauty and personal care sector is one of the fastest‑growing in East Africa, valued at over USD 318 million in 2025, with a projected CAGR of 5–6% through 2030, according to a report by Strategy Helix Group.
Growth is driven by urbanization, a rising middle class, digital retail platforms, and increasing demand for affordable yet quality cosmetics and skincare.
These developments support manufacturers, importers, traders, testers, researchers, educators, and regulators in scaling operations.
Local production boosts align with national goals for manufacturing-led growth and investment attraction in a stable, infrastructure-rich trade hub.
Meanwhile, KEBS earlier last year raised alarm over the circulation of banned skin‑lightening creams in the local market, warning that these products pose severe health risks such as cancer, kidney damage, and mercury poisoning.
This move protects public health while reinforcing Kenya’s cosmetics exports as safe, compliant, and globally competitive.
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