East Africa wants to curb imports of used clothes. But it's not easy
Summary
East African countries want to reduce the import of used clothes because they hurt local clothing businesses. However, many people in the region rely on buying and selling second-hand clothes because they are cheaper than new clothes.Key Facts
- East Africa imports large amounts of second-hand clothing from the US, Europe, and China.
- Kenya is the biggest importer in Africa, bringing in nearly 180,000 tonnes of used clothes in 2022.
- The East African Community tried to ban second-hand clothing imports before but gave up after pressure from the US.
- Uganda added a 30% tax on used clothes to help its local clothing makers and protect the environment.
- Kenya charges a 30% customs duty on used clothes, which is higher than the tax on new clothes.
- Many people work in the second-hand clothing trade, with an estimated 4.9 million people across East Africa depending on it for jobs.
- Some local clothing designers say used clothes make it hard to sell their more expensive products.
- Traders and sellers argue that the used clothing business supports many people and should remain free of heavy restrictions.
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