Update 2 - Mandatory Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) Requirements for Kenya – Effective 1st September 26

• News Category RULES AND REGULATIONS

Dear Valued Customer,

Further to our pervious advisory # CCAI-319-010826, Please be advised that the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has implemented the mandatory Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) requirement applicable to all containerized cargo imported to Kenyan ports (shipments in transit outside of Kenya do not require an ACD), effective from 
August 3rd, 2026.

Effective from 1st September 2026, strict compliance has been enforced by the local Authorities. Thus, please be advised that shipments without a valid ACD reference code may be rolled over to another vessel. In addition, any failure to comply with the applicable ACD requirements may lead to fines, penalties, delays, or other 
consequences imposed by the local Authorities, and which will be for the account and responsibility of the customer.

Under this mandatory regulatory requirement, an ACD Reference Code must be obtained prior to cargo loading and must be duly reflected on the corresponding Bill of Lading. Shippers, exporters and freight forwarders are            requested to ensure that the necessary arrangements are made to secure the ACD Reference Code in advance of loading in order to avoid delays, cargo holds, or any other potential compliance-related disruptions, including but not limited to fines, delays, seizure or confiscation.  

Here below you can find the Key Points;

How to Obtain the mandatory ACD Reference Number:

Step 1: Register on the ACD Platform 
Access the official ACD portal and complete the registration process. Then log in.

Step 2: Submit Shipment Documentation 
Upload the required shipping documents to initiate the ACD application and receive the draft ACD.

Step 3: Validate the Declaration 
Pay the applicable fees to complete the validation process.

Step 4: Receive the ACD Reference Code 
Obtain the final ACD certificate and the 15-digit ACD Reference Number.

Step 5: Update the Bill of Lading 
Ensure the 15-digit ACD Reference Code is clearly reflected on the final B/L.

*Important: The ACD Reference Code must be obtained prior to cargo loading and must appear on the final Bill of Lading in compliance with Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) requirements.

Documents Required for ACD Issuance:
Shippers, Exporters, or Freight forwarders must upload the following documents to the ACD platform.

KRA ACD Portal: https://acd.kra.go.ke 
    Draft Bill of Lading 
    Commercial Invoice 
    Freight Invoice*
    Export Declaration

*In case the shipper is paying for the freight, you can apply with the freighted B/L draft instead. Our teams are expected to receive the ACD via an amendment request, and duly insert it in the final B/L.
Please note that failure to comply with the above requirements, missing or incorrect ACD details at the discharge port may result in delayed customs clearance, additional inspections, non-discharge of cargo, or potential legal consequences at destination including risk of financial penalties and fines borne by the customer due to ACD 
non-compliance.

For additional information, you may refer to the official Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) website at: https://acd.kra.go.ke/home

Support & Clarifications: 
For any questions, operational clarifications, or support related to the new requirements, please feel free to contact your local CMA CGM representatives.

Thank you for your continued cooperation, and commitment to ensuring our Group’s compliance.

Best Regards,

CMA CGM Agencies India Pvt. Ltd. 
21st September 26
 

Client Advisory...