KenTrade takes import, standards clearance online

Kenya: Importers of Cargo into Kenya will now be required to apply for Import Declaration Forms (IDFs) through the Kenya National Electronic Single Window System (Kenya TradeNet).

They will at the same time be required to apply for Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs) consignment approval through the same system effective August 1, 2014.

Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade) Chief Executive Officer, Alex Kabuga said this requirement follows successful piloting of the electronic permits module of the system and is part of the ongoing rollout aimed at simplifying trade processes for Kenya’s competitiveness.

“We are determined to build a strong co-operation with stakeholders in ensuring that Kenya TradeNet System is effectively implemented to expedite clearance of goods. I am optimistic that effective implementation of the system will reduce the cost of doing business due to online clearance and simplified procedures” he said.

Export permits

He added that the system is currently able to process pre-clearance documents including import and export permits from Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs), Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (Kephis) and Department of Veterinary Services (DVS). Other organisations whose documents can be pre-cleared are Horticultural Crops Development Authority (HCDA), Pharmacy & Poisons Board (PPB) and Port Health.

The system is also used to apply for and approve Kenya Revenue Authority’s Import Declaration Form (IDF). Kebs Managing Director, Charles Ongwae reiterated that the new rule takes effect on August 1, 2014.

“Under the new rule, cargo importers with hard copies of clearance documents (such as customs declaration) presented at the entry points for goods whose IDFs were processed through the system must also include a copy of Kebs consignment document from the Kenya TradeNet System” he said.

Kenya Revenue Authority’s Simba System, Kenya Ports Authority’s KWATOS System and Kenya Plant Heath Inspectorate Service’s system, which play central roles in cargo clearance, have already been integrated with the Kenya TradeNet System.

This is meant to enable electronic lodgment, processing, and sharing of Import Declaration Forms (IDF) and Manifests (Sea and Air) among stakeholders. Integration with Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) system is currently ongoing. Kenya Trade Network Agency completed piloting for Phase 1 of the electronic permits module in March this year.


 

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