Kenya to Enforce Mandatory ACD Pre‑Declaration from 3 August – B/L Must Show Reference Code

Industry Update

According to an announcement by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), with effect from 3 August 2026, all containerised cargo destined for Kenyan ports must complete the Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) prior to vessel loading, obtain a 15‑digit ACD reference code, and clearly indicate it on the final original Bill of Lading. Cargo that fails to comply will face clearance delays, customs fines, and risk of detention.

It is particularly important to note that ACD and PVOC/COC are two separate systems, supervised respectively by the KRA and the Kenya Bureau of Standards. A single shipment must have both certifications in place – neither can be omitted.

Documents required for ACD application include: draft Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, freight invoice, and export customs declaration. All core information – product description, quantity, weight, and value – must be consistent across all documents; otherwise, this will result in review delays or rejection of the declaration.

Tian’an’s customer orders from Kenya, accepted in July, are currently in production. As the first shipments after the new rules take effect, Tian’an will closely monitor shipping line notices, coordinate promptly with freight forwarders, and proactively review ACD declaration requirements and document alignment details to ensure compliant shipping operations and smooth customs clearance and delivery of the goods.
(Source: Kenya Revenue Authority, Maersk official notice)