Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya Addresses Counterfeit Alcohol Concerns

The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) has called for stronger enforcement against illegal and fake alcohol trade while urging consumers to buy alcoholic beverages only from authorised distributors and licensed retailers.

In a statement issued on Thursday, August 27, the association said it had taken note of recent online discussions and consumer concerns about fake alcohol products and bad consumption experiences.

“The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya [ABAK] has noted recent online discussions and consumer concerns relating to product authenticity, alcohol quality, and unpleasant consumption experiences,” the statement read.

ABAK, which represents Kenya’s leading alcoholic beverage manufacturers, said its members comply with strict local and international quality standards aimed at ensuring products reaching consumers are safe, compliant, and of consistent quality.

Warning To Consumers

The association encouraged consumers to remain vigilant when purchasing alcoholic beverages, noting that buying from legitimate outlets reduces the risk of obtaining products of unknown origin or those that may have been improperly handled within the supply chain.

ABAK Chairperson Kui Kinyanjui said consumers deserve confidence that the products they purchase are genuine and safe, adding that protecting public trust requires stronger enforcement and accountability.

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Additionally, the association reminded consumers to drink responsibly and in moderation, warning against excessive consumption that could lead to adverse health effects that would be blamed on the quality of the product.

ABAK further expressed concerns over the growing trend of fake alcoholic beverages entering the Kenyan market through parallel importation channels.

Fake Alcohol

It said that while legitimate trade remains important to the economy, products imported outside established distribution networks may present challenges related to traceability, storage conditions, and verification of origin.

According to the association, such circumstances can make it difficult for consumers and enforcement agencies to independently confirm the source, handling, and authenticity of some products.

In addition, the association called for closer collaboration between regulators, enforcement agencies, industry players, and retailers to strengthen market surveillance, improve traceability systems, and protect consumers from illegal and non-compliant products.

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Moreover, ABAK said it remains committed to working with government agencies, trade partners, retailers, and consumers to promote a transparent, responsible, and well-regulated alcohol industry that prioritises consumer safety and supports legitimate economic activity.

This comes after many Kenyans have complained online regarding fake alcohol that is being sold across the country, causing harm to people with serious health effects.

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Eric Githua, the Chairperson of the Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK)
PHOTO/NMG