The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) announced that starting January 1, 2025, all mobile phones importers and travelers entering Kenya must declare and register the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of their mobile devices at the port of entry.
In a notice issued on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, KRA emphasised that passengers must declare any mobile devices they plan to use during their stay.
Each device must be listed on the F88 passenger declaration form, along with its corresponding IMEI number.
KRA explained that this new customs requirement aims to enhance tax compliance and improve regulatory oversight of mobile devices brought into the country.
Under these regulations, all importers must submit detailed import entries that include accurate quantities, comprehensive model descriptions, and the respective International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers for each mobile device.
Additionally, device assemblers and manufacturers must register on the KRA Customs portal and submit a report of all devices assembled for the local market, along with their respective IMEI numbers.
Passengers entering Kenya must also declare their mobile devices on the F88 passenger declaration form, providing the necessary details and IMEI numbers for devices intended for use during their stay.
“It is crucial for all stakeholders to obtain the appropriate regulatory clearances and permits from the Communications Authority of Kenya to ensure compliance with local laws.” They said.
This follows a recent announcement by the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) on its new measures to support KRA’s ongoing efforts to enhance tax compliance and improve the integrity of the mobile device market in Kenya.
KRA is mandated to collect revenue on behalf of the Government of Kenya and administers various tax laws and regulations, including the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA, 2004).
In line with Part B of the Second Schedule of the EACCMA, mobile devices are classified as restricted imports, which necessitate obtaining regulatory permits from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).
The authority has urged all importers and stakeholders in the mobile device sector to familiarize themselves with these regulations and to ensure they are in full compliance to facilitate smooth importation processes.
