- KRA will make Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) mandatory for all containerised imports from August 3.
- Exporters must secure an ACD reference code before cargo is loaded.
- The system aims to improve security and speed up customs clearance.
Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced the launch of its new Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) platform. Starting Monday, August 3, 2026, the system will become mandatory for all containerised shipments destined for Kenyan ports.
The move is designed to strengthen maritime security, improve customs efficiency, and streamline regional trade.
Under the new rules, exporters must submit detailed shipment information and supporting documents through the official ACD portal before cargo is loaded at the port of origin. This digital pre arrival cargo system will let customs authorities carry out risk assessments and flag high risk consignments before they reach Kenyan entry points, which should speed up clearance for compliant cargo.
A public notice issued by the tax authority on July 14, 2026, confirmed that the mandate applies broadly across the international maritime supply chain. Those affected include importers, exporters, shipowners, carriers, shipping agents, customs agents, and freight forwarders handling containerised goods bound for Kenya.
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To comply, exporters must obtain a unique ACD reference code before loading cargo for departure. The code is generated through the online portal, acd.kra.go.ke, after the exporter uploads four required documents: a draft bill of lading, a commercial invoice, a freight invoice, and an export declaration. Once the submission is processed and verified, the ACD reference code must be endorsed on the final bill of lading before the shipment proceeds to a Kenyan port.
The initiative forms part of Kenya’s wider push to modernise customs administration and strengthen its position as East and Central Africa’s leading logistics and maritime hub. Import cargo clearance currently relies mainly on documentation submitted after cargo has already shipped and is nearing or has arrived at Kenyan ports.
Moving this process earlier in the supply chain adds a compliance step, but the authority expects it to reduce port congestion, cut manual processing delays, and lower operational costs for compliant traders.
With the August 3 implementation date approaching, KRA is urging international trade and logistics stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the new procedures without delay, to avoid shipping delays or compliance issues. The authority has pointed businesses to its support channels, including operations@acd.kra.go.ke and info@acd.kra.go.ke, for clarification during the transition.
By Bernard Magada
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