Kenya Import Duties & Taxes Explained

There is no evidence in the available research of a cabinet decision to raise a duty-free import limit from 50k to 250k for Kenya. Kenya effectively has no de minimis threshold for package shipments, meaning almost all imports via courier are subject to taxes regardless of value.

Kenya has no duty-free limit for package shipments. Almost all imports are subject to taxes regardless of value. This means your shipment will likely incur import duties, VAT, and other fees when it arrives in Kenya, even for low-value items.

There is no duty-free threshold for most goods - nearly all shipments to Kenya incur import charges, typically totalling around 50% of your package's value. You'll pay Import Duty (commonly 25% for consumer goods), 16% VAT, plus 2.5% IDF and 2% RDL fees on the customs value, with your courier collecting all charges upon delivery.

Kenya has no de minimis threshold for package shipments, so almost all imports are subject to customs duty regardless of value. The only goods with 0% duty rates are raw materials and essential drugs, while finished consumer goods from your shipment typically face 25% duty plus 16% VAT.

The standard Import VAT rate is 16%. This tax is calculated on the total value of your customs declaration, which includes the item cost, shipping, insurance, plus any applicable duties and levies.

You will pay a 2.5% Import Declaration Fee (IDF) and a 2% Railway Development Levy (RDL). Both are calculated based on the CIF value of your shipment before duties are added.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) collects these charges through your courier, such as DHL or FedEx. You will typically be required to pay all applicable taxes and fees before the carrier releases your package for final delivery.

Yes, carriers like DHL or FedEx charge a brokerage or processing fee for clearing your shipment. These fees vary but often range from KES 2,500 to KES 5,000 plus potential disbursement fees.

No, the USD 500 tax-free allowance applies only to passengers arriving with personal luggage at airports. It does not apply to packages shipped via mail or courier services like Stackry.

Yes, high-tech equipment, used electronics, or drones may require special permits from the Communications Authority of Kenya. Check with your courier before shipping restricted items to avoid seizure or return of your shipment.