A curt in Kenya has ruled that the government can proceed with the duty-free rice importation but only under strict limits.

In a ruling delivered by Justice Edward M. Muriithi of the Kerugoya High Court on August 19. 2025, the allowed the implementation of Kenya Gazette Notice No. 10353, which had authorized duty-free importation of 500,000 metric tonnes of Grade 1 rice.

However, the court reduced the allowable importation to 250,000 metric tonnes and restricted the importation window to October 31, 2025, instead of the six months initially requested by the ministry of agriculture.

A petitioner filed a case against duty-free rice, arguing it is unconstitutional, discriminatory and lacking public participation, citing concerns about price drops and the impact on domestic rice producers’ livelihoods.

On the other hand, the state, through the ministries of national treasury and agriculture, defended the Gazette Notice, arguing that Kenya produces about 20 per cent of its rice needs and that imports were necessary to avert food shortages, inflation and a possible food crisis.

Moreover, the court emphasised the importance of protecting farmers from market shocks and ensuring national food security, suggesting phased importation and close monitoring of local harvests and prices.

The court has ordered respondents to submit a progress report by November 3, 2025, detailing local production, farmers’ stock replenishment and actual deficit, with further instructions due on the same day when the petition will proceed to a full hearing.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Mutai Kipngetich