Mombasa port faces congestion risk over higher customs threshold

The Port of Mombasa is facing the risk of severe container congestion after traders reportedly halted the clearance of imported cargo, particularly consignments from China, following an increase in the customs clearance threshold for consolidated cargo. The new threshold, which took effect on August 21, has raised the cost of clearing consignments from Sh2.5 million to Sh3.2 million, adding to the financial burden on traders. Traders and consolidators, who handle the collection of cargo on their behalf, say protests against the increase will continue until the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) reviews and reduces the new charges.