Kenya’s Rejected Finance Bill 2024 Impacts Alcohol Industry

The recently proposed Finance Bill 2024 has ignited a wave of protests across Kenya, drawing attention from international human rights organizations and causing significant public unrest. Although initially proposed, the bill has been rejected by President Ruto, reflecting its contentious nature and the public’s strong opposition. As the bill introduces various new taxes and changes to existing ones, its implications are wide-reaching, affecting multiple sectors of the economy. One such sector is the alcohol industry, and as FrontDoor Kenya, an alcohol delivery platform, we are directly impacted by these changes.

 Understanding the Finance Bill 2024

The Finance Bill 2024 included several tax amendments that were likely to affect the alcohol industry significantly. Among these proposed changes were:

• Increased Excise Duty : The bill proposed an increase in excise duty on alcoholic beverages, including a potential rise by up to 40% or higher for more potent alcoholic drinks
• Digital Marketplace Tax : A withholding tax of 5% for residents and 15% for non-residents on sales through digital marketplaces, which affects platforms like FrontDoor Kenya
• Changes in VAT : Changes in the tax status of certain goods, including the potential introduction of a 16% VAT on items previously exempt.

 Implications for the Alcohol Industry

The alcohol industry, already grappling with the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, faces new challenges with these proposed tax hikes. Increased excise duties would likely lead to higher prices for alcoholic beverages, which could decrease consumer demand. For a delivery platform like FrontDoor Kenya, this translates to potentially lower sales volumes as consumers adjust their spending habits in response to rising costs.

Additionally, the digital marketplace tax introduces a new layer of financial burden. As a platform that facilitates alcohol delivery, FrontDoor Kenya would need to navigate these additional costs, which may necessitate adjustments in our pricing model. This could result in higher delivery charges for consumers or reduced profit margins for the business.

 Impact on Major Bars in Nairobi

Major bars in Nairobi, such as Quiver Lounge and Bar Next Door, are also likely to feel the pinch of the Finance Bill 2024. The increased excise duty would raise the cost of alcoholic beverages, which would either be passed on to consumers or absorbed by the businesses, impacting their profitability. These establishments, which attract large crowds and are known for their vibrant nightlife, may see a decline in patronage as customers seek more affordable alternatives. This not only affects the bars themselves but also the supply chain, including suppliers and delivery platforms like FrontDoor Kenya.

 Impact on Online Delivery Platforms

Online delivery platforms like Uber Eats and Glovo, which also facilitate alcohol delivery, would similarly be affected by the proposed changes. The digital marketplace tax adds a financial burden that these platforms would need to manage, potentially leading to higher delivery fees or reduced profitability. This, in turn, affects consumers who rely on the convenience of online delivery services for their alcohol purchases, possibly leading to decreased usage of these platforms.

 Navigating the New Landscape

As we look to the future, FrontDoor Kenya is committed to navigating these changes while continuing to provide exceptional service to our customers. Here are a few strategies we are considering:

• Advocacy and Engagement : Engaging with industry stakeholders and policymakers to advocate for reasonable tax measures that consider the economic pressures faced by businesses and consumers.
• Operational Efficiency : Streamlining operations to reduce costs and maintain competitive pricing despite the increased tax burden.
• Customer Engagement : Strengthening our relationship with customers through loyalty programs, promotions, and personalized service to retain and attract clients even in a higher-cost environment.

 Conclusion

The Finance Bill 2024 presented significant challenges for the alcohol industry in Kenya. For FrontDoor Kenya, these changes would have required strategic adaptation and proactive engagement with both our customers and the broader policy environment. While the road ahead may still be complex, we remain committed to our mission of delivering quality alcohol products conveniently and efficiently to our valued customers across Kenya. By staying agile and responsive, we aim to turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and continued success. The rejection of the bill by President Ruto offers a glimmer of hope, but it also underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and advocacy to ensure that future legislative proposals support rather than hinder the industry’s recovery and growth.