The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) will roll out the East African Community (EAC) Customs Bond on March 23, 2026, marking a major step in simplifying cross-border trade in the region.

The announcement follows the official launch of the bond at the EAC Heads of State Summit on March 7, 2026, where Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni succeeded President William Ruto as EAC chair.

“KRA together with EAC will assist and provide all the necessary support for a smooth implementation,” the Commissioner for Customs and Border Control announced in a statement on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

“We shall sensitise the Customs agents and all relevant stakeholders in the transition and management of the Bond,” the statement added.

Replacing transit bond

The EAC Customs Bond replaces multiple national transit bonds with a single regional guarantee recognised across all partner states. Previously, traders and freight forwarders had to secure separate bonds in each country, which increased costs and delayed cargo movement.

The new bond system aims to reduce bureaucracy, cut administrative costs, and speed up the transit of goods across the eight-member EAC bloc.

KRA emphasised that all system enhancements are complete and ready for the rollout. The new platform incorporates technology similar to the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System, allowing real-time tracking and monitoring of goods.

This integration gives customs authorities, insurers, and logistics players greater visibility over cargo, reducing risks such as fraud, diversion, and non-compliance.

EAC bond boosts trade

Customs bonds under the new system can be obtained by importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and customs brokers. They provide a financial guarantee to customs authorities and cover potential duties or penalties in the event of non-compliance.

The rollout of the bond comes as EAC leaders set a June 30, 2026, deadline for partner states to remove all Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs). These administrative and regulatory obstacles have historically slowed the free movement of goods and increased the cost of doing business within the region.

It is expected to enhance intra-EAC trade, improve competitiveness, and support the region’s broader socio-economic development.

Traders and customs agents are urged to familiarise themselves with the new procedures ahead of the March 23 rollout. KRA has provided multiple channels for enquiries, complaints, and guidance, including a call centre, SMS services, and email contacts.