The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has introduced new customs regulations requiring importers, travellers, and local manufacturers to declare the IMEI numbers of all mobile devices entering Kenya. This measure aims to boost tax compliance and improve regulatory control of mobile devices in the country.
The new directive announced yesterday mandates that importers of mobile devices adhere to specific procedures under the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA, 2004). Importers must submit detailed import entries for each mobile device, including accurate quantities, model descriptions and IMEI numbers to ensure transparency and accountability during importation. Travellers entering Kenya will also be required to declare their mobile devices’ details at the port of entry.
This move reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening mobile device monitoring and control within Kenya, in collaboration with the Communications Authority of Kenya. KRA also aims to curb tax evasion.
