The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has issued an important notice regarding the declaration of mobile devices and their IMEI numbers during importation.
This directive is part of the KRA’s efforts to collect revenue on behalf of the Kenyan government and to administer the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA).
In respect to the Second Schedule of the EACCMA, the KRA will require all importers of mobile devices to submit detailed import entries, including accurate quantities, model descriptions/specifications, and the respective IMEI numbers of the devices in the customs system.
Passengers entering Kenya will also be required to declare the details and IMEI numbers of any mobile devices they are bringing into the country at the port of entry or on the F88 passenger declaration form. This measure is intended to enhance the integrity and tax compliance of mobile device usage in the country.
Additionally, mobile device assemblers and manufacturers will be required to register on the Customs portal and submit a report of all devices assembled for the local market and their respective IMEI numbers. This requirement aims to ensure comprehensive monitoring and compliance with the new regulations.
These new measures are to take effect from January 1, 2025, with specific guidelines on the system process and how to capture the devices and IMEI numbers for different users being shared in due course.
Importers, passengers, and device assemblers/manufacturers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these requirements and to seek further information from the KRA’s contact center or any KRA office near them.
According to the Commissioner of Customs and Border Control, these changes are part of the government’s efforts to ensure proper tax compliance and the integrity of mobile device usage in Kenya.
