How silver is priced in Kenya
In Kenya silver is sold mainly as sterling (925) jewellery, by the piece or per gram, while bars and coins are priced from the international price per ounce or per kilo. The figures here are international spot silver converted at today's USD/KES rate — the metal value before VAT, duty and dealer premiums.
VAT and import duty
Kenya's standard VAT rate of 16% normally applies to silver jewellery, silverware and bullion bought from a VAT-registered business; silver has no special investment-metal relief. Most silver is imported, so it also pays customs duty under the East African Community common external tariff.
Who sets the price
There is no local silver exchange or benchmark: dealers and jewellers price from the international silver price in dollars converted at the shilling rate, then add their premium. The Central Bank of Kenya (Amendment) Act, 2026 allows the CBK to buy, sell and hold gold and other precious metals, but the stated plans focus on locally mined gold, not silver. Worldwide, more than half of silver demand is industrial — solar panels and electronics — which is why silver often moves more sharply than gold.
Buying tips
Look for a 925 or "sterling" stamp, and be wary of "silver" that is plated or nickel alloy. Ask for the weight and purity on the receipt and use the calculator above with the 925 setting to see the value of the metal. Offers of bulk silver or gold well below the live price are a well-known scam in Kenya.
Tax and duty information last reviewed October 2026. Rules change — confirm with your dealer or tax authority before a large purchase.