The parliamentary committee on Agriculture is proposing a ban on exports of some agricultural produce to encourage value addition and job creation in Kenya.

Committee chairman John Mututho, will today seek parliament's approval to prohibit export of raw cashew nuts, raw pyrethrum, raw bixa or raw macadamia.

The Naivasha MP proposes that those intending to do so should have the written authority of the Cabinet Secretary and approval of the National Assembly.

If passed, a person who contravenes the sub-section will be liable to a fine not exceeding Sh10 million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years, or both.

This is part of the amendments to the Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food Authority Bill.

The new act will provide for establishment of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Authority and make provision for the respective roles of the national and county governments in agriculture. The bill is awaiting debate in the committee stage of the House.

The Authority shall ensure that there is fair competition in the sector, with no dominant undertakings as defined in the Competition Act of 2010.