Importers bringing cargo into Kenya will have to follow new procedures after the Kenya Bureau of Standards confirmed its Pre-Export Verification of Conformity contracts have expired.
In a statement on Tuesday, February 10, KEBS noted that the contracts expired on February 8, paving the way for the close of the most recent three-year cycle in which private inspection firms were used to clear goods before they are shipped to Kenya.
These companies typically carry out quality, safety, and Kenyan standard inspections in the export country before commodities are allowed into the local market.
Consequent upon the expiration of the contracts, inspection firms withdrew their services and refused to entertain any new certification requests.
Still, KEBS has given a small reprieve to importers who had already commenced the process. The Bureau said any request submitted on or before February 8 will still be handled as long as the inspection is done and a CoC or non-conformity is issued by February 28.
KEBS said it was currently sourcing new inspection companies for the next PVoC contract period and that traders will be informed when the service is fully resumed.
However, goods coming from East African Community (EAC) partner countries will continue to be handled under existing regional standards rules.
KEBS warned that failure to follow the new guidelines could lead to delays, penalties, or extra costs, urging importers and other players in the trade sector to stay compliant.
