The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) has called for urgent government action to tighten controls in the alcohol market, citing growing concerns over product traceability, authenticity and the rising volume of beverages entering the country through parallel import channels.
The association has urged stronger collaboration between regulators, enforcement agencies, manufacturers and retailers to improve market surveillance, strengthen traceability mechanisms and curb the circulation of illegal and non-compliant products.
The call comes following recent online discussions and consumer concerns over product authenticity, alcohol quality and unpleasant consumption experiences.
ABAK, which represents leading alcohol beverage manufacturers in Kenya, said its members adhere to local and international quality standards intended to ensure products reaching consumers are safe, compliant and of consistent quality.
The association urged consumers to purchase alcoholic beverages only from authorised distributors, licensed retailers and other reputable outlets, saying legitimate channels reduce the risk of purchasing products of unknown origin or those that may have been improperly handled along the supply chain.
“Kenyan consumers deserve the assurance that the products they purchase are genuine, safe and sourced through legitimate channels,” ABAK Chairperson Kui Kinyanjui said.
ABAK said products imported outside established distribution networks can create challenges around traceability, storage conditions and verification of origin, making it difficult for consumers and enforcement agencies to independently establish their source, handling and authenticity.
ABAK also urged consumers that alcohol should be consumed responsibly and in moderation, noting that excessive consumption can result in adverse health effects that may sometimes be mistaken for problems with product quality.
“We urge consumers to buy alcoholic beverages only from authorised and reputable outlets and to always drink responsibly,” Kinyanjui said, adding that coordinated action among stakeholders was necessary to safeguard product integrity and consumer trust.
ABAK said it would continue working with government agencies, retailers, trade partners and consumers to promote a transparent and well-regulated alcohol industry while supporting legitimate economic activity.
The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) is an umbrella body that brings together Kenya’s leading manufacturers and distributors of alcoholic beverages.
The association members include Kenya Wine Agencies Limited, Heineken, Kenya Breweries Limited, UDV Kenya, London Distillers Kenya, Pernod Ricard Kenya and Two Cousins Distillers Limited
