The National Treasury has officially launched the process of preparing the Finance Bill 2027, inviting Kenyans and key stakeholders to submit tax policy proposals months earlier than in previous years.
In a public notice dated July 27, the Treasury called for proposals on tax law amendments, marking the formal start of the 2027 budget cycle. The move is aimed at fast-tracking the legislative process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Unlike previous years, the Treasury has begun public participation much earlier, with the goal of finalising the Finance Bill and submitting it to the National Assembly by January 2027.
The Treasury urged stakeholders to submit proposals that include specific amendments to tax laws, accompanied by clear justifications supported by evidence or sound economic analysis.
In addition to domestic tax proposals, stakeholders have also been invited to submit recommendations on East African Community (EAC) Customs measures, including tariff adjustments and duty remission schemes.
According to the notice, all proposals should align with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to drive economic growth through a value chain-based approach.
Kenyans interested in contributing to the process have until August 31, 2026, to submit their proposals either physically or via email.
The announcement comes just weeks after the Treasury launched separate public participation on proposed adjustments to the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax bands.
Why the Process Started Early
The Treasury explained that the accelerated timeline is necessary because 2027 is an election year, with Kenyans expected to vote in the General Election on August 10, 2027.
To avoid delays caused by Parliament breaking for election campaigns, the government wants the Finance Act 2027 enacted well before lawmakers adjourn.
“COGNIZANT that year 2027 is an election year, there is need to fast-track the National Fiscal Budget process to ensure smooth government operations. It is therefore imperative that the process of preparing the Finance Bill, 2027 begins early enough to ensure that the Finance Act, 2027 is enacted before Parliament breaks in preparation for the General Elections,” the Treasury said in the notice.