Global Research: 96% of Second-Hand Clothing is Rewardable A major field study released in April 2026 by the SMEP Programme (in partnership with UNCTAD) provides critical, primary-source data that directly refutes the "waste dumping" narrative. Based on a sample of over 244,000 garments, the study proves that the vast majority of imported second-hand clothing is rewearable and high-value, not waste. SMEP programme+ 1 Key Findings: Waste levels are consistently below 1.5% in i

The government has clarified that there will be no additional import taxes on mitumba in the Finance Bill 2026, aimed at reducing tax exposure for traders at the point of entry. However, the bill does propose subjecting the local supply of secondhand clothing to VAT. The government spokesperson emphasized that many of these proposals were developed in consultation with sector stakeholders to simplify compliance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdxwJVICfoo