Clear references to Kenyan and EAC import/export requirements, export controls, and standards for trade. Authoritative government sources and compliance guidance for East African operations.
Essential requirements for Kenyan import/export operations with official government sources and EAC compliance.
| Requirement | Description | Official Source | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| KRA Tax PIN | Required for all import/export operations; register with Kenya Revenue Authority before conducting international trade | Kenya Revenue Authority | Obtain KRA PIN, register for tax compliance, and establish import/export account |
| Import Declaration Form (IDF) | Required for all imports; submit to Kenya Customs before goods arrival for clearance processing | KRA Customs Services | Submit IDF online through SIMBA system, obtain clearance before shipment |
| Export Declaration Form (EDF) | Required for all exports from Kenya; submit electronically via Kenya Trade Net System | Ministry of Trade | Prepare EDF with complete product details and submit through KENTRADE portal |
| EAC Rules of Origin | Certificates of origin required for EAC preferential trade; comply with rules of origin under EAC Protocol | East African Community | Obtain EAC Certificate of Origin from Kenya Association of Manufacturers |
| KEBS Standards Compliance | Product standards compliance via Kenya Bureau of Standards; mandatory for many product categories | Kenya Bureau of Standards | Obtain KEBS certification, PVOC certificates where applicable |
| Single Business Permit | County business permit required for import/export operations; obtained from respective county government | Government of Kenya | Apply for single business permit from Nairobi County or respective county |
Interactive checklist for Kenyan import/export operations with authoritative links and EAC compliance procedures.
Obtain KRA PIN and register for tax compliance with Kenya Revenue Authority
KRA Portal →Obtain Single Business Permit from Nairobi County or respective county government
Nairobi County →Register for SIMBA customs system for import declaration forms
KRA Customs Services →Obtain KEBS certification and PVOC certificates where required
KEBS Standards →Submit Import Declaration Form online before goods arrival
SIMBA System →For EAC trade, obtain certificate of origin and comply with rules of origin
EAC Trade →Ensure all tax obligations are current with Kenya Revenue Authority
KRA Portal →Obtain export license from Ministry of Trade for controlled goods
Ministry of Trade →Submit Export Declaration Form through Kenya Trade Net (KENTRADE)
KENTRADE Portal →Obtain certificate of origin from Kenya Association of Manufacturers or relevant authority
KAM Certificate →For agricultural products, obtain phytosanitary certificate from Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate (KEPHIS)
KEPHIS Certification →For EAC destinations, complete EAC certificate of origin and inter-trade permits
EAC Trade →Direct links to authoritative Kenyan government sources and regional authorities for compliance requirements and updates.
Primary agency for tax administration and customs regulation in Kenya.
Trade policy, export licenses, and Kenya Trade Net (KENTRADE) administration.
Regional trade bloc providing preferential trade arrangements and common market access.
Overview of Kenyan standards and regulatory considerations for international trade and EAC compliance.
Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) enforces product standards and quality control. Many products require Pre-shipment Verification of Conformity (PVOC) before import to Kenya.
KEBS Portal: Kenya Bureau of Standards
PVOC Program: PVOC Requirements
The East African Community provides preferential trade arrangements for member states. Kenya exports to EAC countries benefit from reduced tariffs under the EAC Common External Tariff.
Key Requirements:
While national regulations govern international trade, county governments may have additional requirements for business operations within their jurisdiction.
Nairobi County: Nairobi County Government
Other Counties: Check with respective county trade offices for industry-specific requirements and single business permits.
Important legal information and disclaimers for international trade compliance.
Regulatory Updates: Government requirements and regulations are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with official government sources before conducting import/export operations.
Professional Advice: This compliance hub provides general guidance only. For specific compliance questions or complex situations, consult with qualified trade compliance professionals or legal counsel.
Accuracy: While we strive to maintain accurate and current information, we cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of third-party government sources and links.
Client Responsibility: Importers and exporters are ultimately responsible for ensuring their operations comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
Our compliance specialists can help navigate complex regulatory requirements and ensure your operations remain compliant.