How to Import Goods into Kenya: KRA Customs Declaration Guide 2026

Importing goods into Kenya means dealing with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and there's no shortcut around it. Whether you're bringing in electronics, textiles, machinery, or consumer goods, you'll need to file a customs declaration, pay duty, and clear your shipment through one of Kenya's ports. The process isn't deliberately complicated, but it moves slowly and costs money at each stage. Understanding what happens and when saves you thousands in unnecessary delays.

The KRA Customs Declaration Portal

Start at the KRA's iCMS (Integrated Customs Management System). This is where all import declarations happen. You'll need an iTax account first—register on itax.kra.go.ke if you don't have one. Once logged in, navigate to the customs section and select "Import Declaration." The portal walks you through filling in your shipment details: item descriptions, quantities, values, and HS codes (the international commodity classification system). Get the HS code wrong and your goods sit in the warehouse while you correct it.

You'll also need an IMEI (Import-Export Merchant Identification) number from KRA. This takes 1-2 weeks to obtain and costs around KSh 2,000. Without it, you cannot file any customs declaration. If you're importing regularly, hire KRA tax experts on Kaziiko to handle this—they know the exact documents KRA demands and can speed up registration.

Calculating Duty and Taxes

KRA charges duty based on your declared value and the product category. Duty rates range from 0% on raw materials to 35% on finished goods. On top of duty, you pay Value Added Tax (VAT) at 16%. There's also an excise tax on certain goods like alcohol and fuel. Many importers undervalue shipments to reduce duty—KRA's valuation teams actively catch this, and penalties are steep.

Use KRA's tariff database to find your product's duty rate before importing. The calculation looks like this: (Declared Value × Duty Rate) + (Declared Value + Duty) × VAT = Total Tax Payable. For a KSh 100,000 shipment on a 25% duty item, you're paying roughly KSh 46,400 in total taxes.

Port Clearance and Logistics

Your goods arrive at Port of Mombasa, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, or an inland container depot. Within 5 days, you must file your customs declaration in iCMS and pay all duties. If you miss this window, demurrage fees kick in—typically KSh 500-1,000 per day per container. A customs broker handles the physical inspection and release. Brokers charge between KSh 5,000 and KSh 15,000 per shipment depending on complexity. They're worth the cost because they know which documents KRA will request and prevent your goods from getting stuck.

Pay duty through M-Pesa, bank transfer, or KRA's online portal. Once cleared, your broker arranges transport. The entire process typically takes 7-14 days from arrival to warehouse delivery.

Common Delays

Missing or incomplete documentation is the biggest culprit. KRA frequently requests proforma invoices, certificates of origin, or packing lists. If your invoice doesn't match your declaration, expect a hold-up. Incorrect HS codes trigger another common delay. Some products need specific permits—pharmaceuticals require approval from the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, food items need clearance from the Kenya Bureau of Standards. Factor these in when planning your import timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I import goods without hiring a customs broker?

Technically yes, but it's unwise. Brokers navigate KRA's demands, handle inspections, and prevent costly errors. A broker's fee (KSh 5,000-15,000) is cheap compared to demurrage fees or goods being rejected. For first-time importers, use a broker.

How long does customs clearance actually take?

Standard clearance is 5-14 days from arrival. This assumes your documentation is complete and your shipment isn't flagged for inspection. Incomplete paperwork adds 7-21 days. Some goods (like food or pharmaceuticals) need additional agency approvals and take longer.

What happens if KRA rejects my declared value?

KRA's valuation team may deem your price unrealistic and reassess upward. You then pay higher duty on their valuation. You can appeal within 30 days using documented evidence (invoices, market comparables, cost breakdowns). Find a verified Kenyan expert on Kaziiko who specializes in customs appeals if this happens.

Do I need a business license to import into Kenya?

Yes. You need a valid business registration from the Cabinet Secretary's office and tax compliance from KRA. Self-employed traders also need a tax PIN. Unregistered individuals cannot legally import goods for sale.