Kenya Copyright Board implements mobile phone tax
Kenyans will now have to part with a levy while purchasing various media and electronic devices including CDs, DVDs, USB drives, and smartphones.
A statement by the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO), confirmed the new tax, referred to as the Blank Tape Levy, will be implemented in accordance with sections 28(3)(6) and 30(6) of the Copyright Act and the second schedule part B of the Copyright Regulations 2020.
“KECOBO wishes to inform the public of the commencement of the implementation of the Blank Tape Levy with effect from September 15, 2023, pursuant to sections 28(3)(6) and 30(6) of the Copyright Act and the second schedule part B of the Copyright Regulations 2020,”
The Blank Tape Levy is a nominal fee designed to address copyright concerns arising from the potential to make personal copies of copyrighted content using these media and devices.
This levy will be collected at the point of entry into Kenya or at the point of local manufacturing.
KECOBO clarified that the funds generated through this levy will be allocated to compensate copyright holders for the potential revenue loss incurred when individuals create private copies of their copyrighted works, such as music, movies, or software. The primary objective is to ensure that creators and content owners are fairly compensated for their intellectual property.
“Blank tape levy is collected on items that may be used to carry copyright-protected content for private copying payable at the point of entry into Kenya or the point of manufacturing locally,” Explaining further, KECOBO stated,
This move by KECOBO aligns with international efforts to protect intellectual property rights and support content creators. By imposing the Blank Tape Levy, Kenya aims to strike a balance between consumer convenience and the protection of copyrighted material, ensuring that artists and content producers receive their rightful compensation for their creative works.
The revenue generated from this levy will further contribute to fostering a sustainable creative ecosystem where creators are rewarded for their talents and contributions to the cultural landscape.
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