Who is affected by the new KRA Advance Cargo Declaration system?
By Sharon Atieno, July 16, 2026The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has introduced a new digital requirement that will change how businesses move containerised cargo into the country, with importers, exporters and logistics players required to adjust their shipping processes ahead of the August rollout.
The Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) system, which becomes mandatory on August 3, 2026, requires exporters shipping goods to Kenya to submit cargo details and supporting documents before their shipments are loaded.
KRA says the platform will allow customs officials to access shipment information early, assess risks and improve efficiency in cargo clearance at Kenyan ports.
The new system will affect importers, exporters shipping goods to Kenya, shipping lines, shipowners, carriers, shipping agents, customs agents, freight forwarders and other logistics stakeholders handling containerised cargo.
Exporters to submit documents before shipment
Under the new requirements, exporters will be required to obtain an ACD reference code before their cargo is loaded for transportation to Kenya.
To generate the code, exporters must upload key documents through the ACD platform, including the draft Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, freight invoice and export declaration.
Once verified, the system will issue a unique ACD reference code that must be included on the Bill of Lading before the cargo proceeds to Kenya.
KRA said the move is part of ongoing efforts to modernise customs operations and strengthen visibility across the international supply chain.
“The platform will enhance customs efficiency, strengthen cargo security and improve trade facilitation by enabling advance submission of shipment information,” KRA said in its notice issued on Tuesday, July 14, 2026.
New system targets faster cargo clearance
The authority said receiving cargo details before arrival will enable customs officers to conduct early risk assessments and identify high-risk consignments while allowing compliant shipments to move faster.
The introduction of the ACD platform comes as Kenya seeks to position itself as a regional logistics hub, with the Port of Mombasa serving as a major gateway for goods entering Kenya and neighbouring countries.
Businesses urged to prepare early
For importers and exporters, the new system introduces an additional compliance step that will require closer coordination with shipping agents, customs brokers and freight companies.
Industry players have been advised to familiarise themselves with the requirements before the August 3 deadline to avoid delays and disruptions once the platform becomes operational.
KRA said the system will improve transparency, reduce inefficiencies associated with manual processes and provide better cargo tracking.
“The Advance Cargo Declaration Platform is aimed at improving visibility of international trade and supporting smoother movement of legitimate cargo,” the authority stated.
Boosting Kenya’s trade competitiveness
Globally, advance cargo declaration systems are increasingly used by customs authorities to strengthen border controls and improve trade management.
KRA said early access to shipment information will help authorities make informed decisions while improving revenue administration and reducing unnecessary delays for businesses.
As Kenya continues expanding digital solutions in customs and trade, the ACD platform is expected to become a key requirement for companies involved in international shipping.
Stakeholders have been encouraged to begin preparations early and ensure their documentation processes comply with the new rules before implementation.