The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) wants to introduce fees for processing ICT equipment import permits. This permit processing fee will affect importers, customs clearing agents, retailers, and ultimately consumers of technology products in Kenya.
In a consultation paper dated March 3, 2026, signed by Director General David Mugonyi, the Authority proposes to charge KES 15,000 per permit for commercial imports and KES 5,000 per permit for personal use imports, fees it says are necessary to sustain operations it currently runs at no charge.
The fees would apply to all permit applications processed through the National Electronic Single Window System (NESWS), the KenTrade-managed platform, also known as TradeNet System, through which every ICT equipment shipment, from smartphones and laptops to routers and telecommunications infrastructure, must pass before customs clearance.
CA claims the entire process is resource-heavy and not sustainable without funds.
“This poses challenges, noting that the Authority does not currently charge for the permit processing. It is on this basis, and the need to sustain efficient operations, that the Authority proposes to introduce permit processing fees,” reads the consultation paper.
The flat-fee structure raises proportionality concerns. A small retailer importing ten smartphones pays the same KES 15,000 as an operator importing telecommunications infrastructure.
The CA has also not disclosed how many permits it processes annually, making it difficult for stakeholders to assess whether the proposed fees are proportionate to actual operational costs.
The ICT regulator is accepting public feedback via email ([email protected]) until April 30, 2026. No physical submissions will be considered.
From KRA’s Luggage Tax to CA’s Import Fee
Charging a permit processing fee is also ironic for a country said to be on the digital superhighway. It is, however, consistent with the aggressive revenue growth practice by the current government.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) sparked widespread criticism in 2023 by implementing a policy to levy taxes on personal effects. The directive targeted international travelers arriving at JKIA, mandating that any goods exceeding a $500 valuation be subject to taxation.
KRA recently introduced bodycams to mitigate tax disputes and bribery at border points.
What CA Already Requires of Importers
The proposed fees are in addition to a compliance framework that the CA tightened in March 2025. All commercial importers must hold the appropriate CA license and attach a valid compliance certificate to every application.
“All importers of ICT products meant for sale are required to attach a copy of the valid compliance certificate associated with the license they hold for which the importation permit is being sought,” the CA stated.
Invoices must include model numbers and quantities for type approval verification. Importers must also cross-reference the CA’s type-approved equipment list and attach confirmation of their specific model’s approval status.
Internet-connected devices additionally require IPv6 compliance documentation.
For novel or complex products not yet in the type approval database, further information may be requested on a case-by-case basis.
