Kenya Import Duties & Taxes Explained

Stackry’s guide to the taxes, duties, and fees involved when shipping from the USA to

Kenya

Overview

Kenya has no de minimis threshold, so you'll pay taxes on almost all shipments. Expect Import Duty (typically 25% for finished goods), 16% VAT, plus mandatory levies: 2.5% Import Declaration Fee and 2% Railway Development Levy. Total taxes often reach 50% of your package value, plus courier handling fees.

Your Questions Answered

Q1.

What is the standard VAT rate applied to my shipment in Kenya?

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.

Q2.

Which goods are exempted from customs duty in Kenya?

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, finished consumer goods in your shipment typically face 25% duty plus 16% VAT.

Q3.

What are the Import Declaration Fee and Railway Development Levy?

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.

Q4.

Who collects these taxes and when do I pay them?

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.

Q5.

Do carriers charge extra fees for handling customs clearance in Kenya?

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.

Helpful Resources

The links below are external references to official Kenya government sources. We recommend reviewing them for the most accurate and up-to-date information on taxes and duties for Kenya.
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended as a general overview of customs duties, import taxes, and related processes. It is not comprehensive and may not reflect the most current regulations.We recommend checking official customs or government sources to confirm the exact rules, charges, and requirements before making any purchasing or shipping decisions.While we aim to keep information accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee its completeness and are not responsible for any discrepancies or inaccuracies.