Kenya has begun enforcing stricter Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) requirements for containerised imports, with carriers warning that non-compliant shipments could face delays, additional inspections or be rolled to another vessel. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) introduced the requirement on 3 August 2026, with full compliance enforced from September 1.
The rule applies to containerised cargo imported through Kenyan ports, while cargo transiting through Kenya for destinations outside the country is excluded. Under the new regime, shippers, exporters and freight forwarders must obtain an ACD reference code before cargo is loaded.
The 15-digit reference number must also be included on the final Bill of Lading. To obtain the code, cargo interests are required to register on the KRA’s ACD platform and submit the necessary shipping documentation, including a draft Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, freight invoice and export declaration.
Once the declaration has been validated and the applicable fees paid, the KRA issues an ACD certificate and reference number. Some shipping lines have warned their customers that containers shipped without a valid ACD reference could be rolled to a subsequent vessel.
Missing or inaccurate information could also lead to delays in customs clearance, additional inspections or the non-discharge of cargo. Non-compliance could further expose shippers and other parties to financial penalties, fines and other legal consequences, according to officials.
The enforcement marks a significant tightening of Kenya’s cargo declaration regime and places greater responsibility on cargo interests to ensure that shipment information is accurate, complete and submitted within the required timeframe.