Kenya has implemented its Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) requirement for containerized imports, effective 3 August 2026. As of 1 September 2026, strict enforcement is in place, and non-compliant shipments may be subject to operational delays, vessel rollovers, or customs-related impediments—per guidance issued by CMA CGM.
The ACD requirement applies exclusively to containerized cargo destined for final delivery in Kenya via Kenyan ports. It does not apply to transshipment cargo passing through Kenya en route to third-country destinations.
Pre-loading submission and documentation requirements
Shippers, exporters, and freight forwarders are required to obtain a valid 15-digit ACD reference code prior to cargo loading. This reference number must be accurately reflected on the final negotiable Bill of Lading.
To secure the ACD code, stakeholders must register on the Kenya Revenue Authority’s (KRA) official ACD portal and submit the following mandatory documents:
Draft Bill of Lading
Commercial invoice
Freight invoice
Export declaration
Upon successful validation of the submitted data and settlement of applicable fees, the KRA issues an official ACD certificate along with the corresponding reference number.
Compliance implications
CMA CGM advises that containers lacking a valid ACD reference code—or bearing inaccurate or incomplete information—may be rolled to subsequent voyages. Additionally, such non-compliance may result in:
Delayed customs clearance
Enhanced inspection protocols
Suspension of cargo discharge at port
Financial penalties, administrative fines, and potential legal liability, as stipulated under Kenyan customs regulations
CMA CGM first communicated this regulatory update to customers in August 2026 and has since reiterated the mandatory nature of the process. Stakeholders are strongly advised to complete the ACD registration and obtain the reference code prior to container loading—retroactive application after cargo entry into the transport chain is not permitted and carries significant operational risk.
Resource.: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/V66DjGyo5-KCyTJ2QstnWA