Mombasa clearing agents protest KRA cargo clearance rules

Clearing and forwarding agents in Mombasa have protested new documentation requirements introduced by the Kenya Revenue Authority, KRA, saying the changes have delayed the clearance of vehicles and other cargo destined for neighbouring countries through the Port of Mombasa. The agents claim the new export declaration requirement has resulted in a backlog of cargo at the port, container freight stations and inland container depots, threatening to worsen congestion and increase the cost of doing business. The agents spoke during a protest outside KRA’s Southern Region offices in Mombasa, where they called on the authority to urgently address the stalemate and allow the release of cargo that had already arrived before the new requirement was implemented. KRA, on its part, says the requirement for an export declaration in the clearance of imported goods is anchored in law under Section 23B of the Tax Procedures Act. On motor vehicle valuation, KRA says the matter is currently before the court and is awaiting determination.