8 月. 25 2026

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced the implementation of a new Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) platform for all containerized cargo destined for Kenyan ports,

Effective 03 August 2026: Under this new regulatory requirement, a valid ACD Reference Number must be obtained prior to cargo loading and endorsed on the Bill of Lading.

Effective 01 September 2026 onwards: Vessel carriers will be required to validate the ACD Reference Number prior to loading and ensure containers are loaded at origin only when a valid ACD Reference Number has been obtained.

To facilitate seamless cargo processing and minimize the risk of delays or cargo rollovers, please take note of the updated Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) requirements applicable to shipments destined for Kenya.

The ACD requirement applies to all containerized import cargo (local imports)

The ACD reference comprises 15 alphanumeric characters, for example: ACDKE2026003434

The reference is structured as follows:

  • ACDKE – Country-specific ACD prefix
  • 2026 – Year of issuance
  • 003434 – Unique reference number assigned by KRA

Important Requirement
The ACD reference number is mandatory for shipment processing and must be correctly endorsed on the Bill of Lading prior to the cargo being dispatched to Kenya.

Customer guidance for obtaining the Kenya ACD reference number
1. Register: Log into the official website: https://acd.kra.go.ke
2.Submit Documents: Upload required documents to receive a draft ACD.
3. Validate: Pay fees to receive the final validated certificate.
4. Finalize BOL: Ensure the 15-digit ACD number is clearly printed on the final Bill of Lading.

Documents Required for ACD Draft & Reference number.
Shippers, exporters, or freight forwarders are required to upload the following documents on the ACD platform:

KRA ACD Portal: https://acd.kra.go.ke

  • Draft Bill of Lading
  • Commercial Invoice
  • Freight Invoice
  • Export Declaration

Non-Compliance
From 01 September 2026, only containers supported by a valid ACD Number will be eligible for loading. Shipments without a valid ACD Number may be rolled to a subsequent vessel and import customers may be subject to customs penalties and other regulatory actions for non-compliance.

Should you have any questions, please contact your local ESL Sales representative or our Customer Service team.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and support.