There has been complaints that the Coast economy had deteriorated since some of the operations were relocated.
The lobby argues that many people had lost their livelihoods. Also affected were small-scale traders whose businesses such motor vehicle spare part shops and food kiosks were dealt a blow.
"Rescinding the SGR cargo directives is the only way to truly restore port services and livelihoods. This would also greatly increase the port's competitiveness by giving importers more options for customs clearance and transport," said the lobby in a statement.
The dismissed claims that the move would kill business at the inland depots.
"Nairobi and Naivasha will still get cargo. We are simply demanding freedom in how we do business. Cargo owners should be able to choose two things: the Customs area to clear their goods and the mode of transport." And road transporters, who were also hard hit, cautioned KPA and other State agencies against failure to fully comply.
"If above is not the case then we would like you to take note of our following concerns... (that) any procedure requiring an importer to apply for clearing or nomination of their shipments in Mombasa is in fact hoodwinking the President and the public in general that the illegal order given by the previous government has been reversed," said KTA in the letter to KPA.