The Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) has commenced an investigation into the recalling of over 100,000 pairs of jeans by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
In a statement, the agency under Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria's ministry indicated that it was yet to be informed of the reasons behind the recalling of the apparel meant for children.
However, Kenyans.co.ke learnt that the Kenyan-made jeans were recalled over faulty features that were hazardous to children.
In particular, the independent US Commission noted that the attires had metal snaps that could potentially fall off and hurt the children.
EPZA affirmed that it was committed to finding a solution to the concerns raised by the US Commission with the aim of enabling Kenyan companies to continue with their exports.
"We have launched investigations concerning this garment manufacturing issue and in collaboration with the affected stakeholders will share a comprehensive statement upon conclusion of the same," read the statement in part.
The jeans had been exported to the US and Canada in September 2022 with the sales set to be completed.
According to the Commission over 90,000 pieces of jeans had already been sold with parents asked to return them to the shops.
Each piece was retailing at an average of Ksh3,600.
“Consumers should immediately take the recalled jeans away from children and return the jeans to any The Children’s Place store for a full refund. The Children’s Place is notifying all known purchasers,” the body directed.
The Kenyan-made jeans were exported to the US under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) arrangement which helped Kenyan manufacturers to have access to the US market easily.
Factories based in Nairobi and Machakos counties were responsible for the manufacture of the jeans.
