The Communications Authority of Kenya has proposed a CA import permit fee that would require all electronic imports, whether for business or personal use, to pay a processing charge. In a consultation paper dated March 3, 2026, the regulator said it plans to introduce fees of KES 15,000 for commercial imports and KES 5,000 for personal imports.
The proposal, signed by Director General David Mugonyi, would apply to all ICT equipment entering the country through the National Electronic Single Window System, also known as TradeNet. The system handles approvals for devices such as smartphones, laptops, routers, and telecommunications infrastructure before customs clearance.
CA import permit fee proposal details
The CA import permit fee would be charged per permit application processed through TradeNet, the KenTrade-managed platform used by importers and clearing agents. According to the authority, the move aims to fund a process that currently operates without direct charges.
“This poses challenges, noting that the Authority does not currently charge for the permit processing,” the consultation paper states. It adds that introducing fees would help sustain efficient operations.
The proposed charges would apply broadly across the sector, affecting importers, retailers, logistics agents, and ultimately consumers purchasing technology products in Kenya.
CA import permit fee raises cost concerns
The flat-rate structure of the CA import permit fee has raised questions about fairness and proportionality. Smaller importers could face the same charges as large-scale operators despite significant differences in shipment value.
For example, a small retailer importing a limited number of devices would pay the same KES 15,000 fee as a company bringing in large telecommunications infrastructure. Stakeholders have also noted that the authority has not disclosed the number of permits processed annually, making it difficult to assess the justification for the fees.
CA import permit fee adds to regulatory requirements
The CA import permit fee would come on top of an already strict compliance framework introduced in March 2025. Under current rules, all commercial importers must hold a valid CA license and attach a compliance certificate to each permit application.
Invoices must include detailed product information, including model numbers and quantities, to support type approval verification. Importers must also confirm that their devices appear on the regulator’s approved equipment list.
In addition, internet-enabled devices require documentation confirming IPv6 compatibility. For new or complex technologies not listed in the database, the authority may request additional technical details on a case-by-case basis.
CA import permit fee follows broader revenue measures
The proposed CA import permit fee aligns with broader government efforts to expand revenue collection. In recent years, the Kenya Revenue Authority introduced taxes on personal effects brought into the country, particularly targeting items exceeding a $500 value threshold.
Authorities have also implemented measures such as body cameras for customs officers to address disputes and improve compliance at entry points.
CA import permit fee consultation ongoing
The Communications Authority is currently inviting public feedback on the proposal. Submissions must be sent via email to [email protected] by April 30, 2026. The regulator said it will not accept physical submissions.
The consultation process is expected to inform whether the proposed fee structure will be adopted or revised before implementation.
The outcome could have significant implications for Kenya’s technology market, particularly in terms of pricing, compliance costs, and the ease of importing ICT equipment.
