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Market Surveillance

Ensuring products in the Kenyan market meet approved standards

Banned Products

Prohibiting the sale of products that fail to meet standards

Trusted Trader Programme

Learn more about how to sell safe and becoming a trusted trader
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What is Market Surveillance?

Market surveillance refers to the activities and measures undertaken by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) to ensure that products in the Kenyan market comply with approved specifications and do not pose a threat to public health, safety, or the environment. It is a proactive approach to safeguarding consumers and promoting fair trade practices.

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Role of Market Surveillance

Monitoring of products in the Kenyan market to ensure that they conform to relevant technical regulations (Kenya Standards or Approved Specifications) with respect to health, safety and environmental requirements, and to ensure that fair trade practices are promoted.

Ensuring Product Compliance

Monitoring of products in the Kenyan market to ensure that they conform to relevant technical regulations (Kenya Standards or Approved Specifications) with respect to health, safety and environmental requirements, and to ensure that fair trade practices are promoted.

Promoting Fair Trade

Monitoring of products in the Kenyan market to ensure that they conform to relevant technical regulations (Kenya Standards or Approved Specifications) with respect to health, safety and environmental requirements, and to ensure that fair trade practices are promoted.

Consumer Protection

KEBS ensures consumers have access to safe and high-quality products, fostering confidence in the market.

Environmental Safety

By ensuring products meet environmental standards, KEBS plays a role in preserving the ecosystem from hazardous goods.
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KEBS Market Surveillance Process

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Market Research and Intelligence

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Product Risk Assessment

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Planning and Allocation of resources

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Inspection of Products

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Sampling and Testing of Products

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Analysis of Results

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Reporting and Feedback

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Enforcement and Monitoring

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Market Surveillance Activities

These are the activities carried out and measures taken by the Kenya Bureau of Standards to ensure that products in the Kenyan market comply with the requirements set out in the approved specifications and do not endanger health, safety or the environment.

Sector-Targeted Market Surveillance

KEBS carries out programmed market inspections based on a risk assessment schedule to target specific sectors. These inspections help identify non-compliant products and prevent unsafe goods from entering the market.

Market Intelligence Gathering

KEBS actively collects and analyzes market data to track trends, detect emerging risks, and ensure proactive compliance with standards. This helps in shaping strategies to improve market surveillance efforts.

Complaint Investigations

Any complaints related to substandard products are thoroughly investigated. KEBS ensures that all complaints are acknowledged, reviewed, and acted upon, which may include product recalls, fines, or legal action.

Awareness Programs

KEBS runs programs to educate both consumers and businesses about the importance of product quality and compliance. These programs help inform the public of their rights and responsibilities, empowering them to report unsafe products and make informed choices.

Corrective and Preventive Actions

When substandard products are detected, KEBS takes corrective actions such as product seizures, reworking, and initiating prosecutions. Preventive measures are also implemented to prevent future occurrences of non-compliance.

Strategic Partnerships

KEBS partners with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to enhance market surveillance activities. These collaborations provide additional resources and expertise, ensuring a more thorough oversight of the market.

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