Kenyan traders and logistics firms using Tanzanian ports and border posts may face higher clearing costs after the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) moved to enforce minimum service fees for clearing and forwarding agents.
In a notice dated July 6, the regulator warned that agents who charge below the minimum rates or fail to use approved electronic systems risk regulatory action.
“In the exercise of its mandate, TASAC wishes to remind all Clearing and Forwarding Agents registered under the Tanzania Shipping Agencies (Clearing and Forwarding Agents) Regulations, 2018, Government Notice No. 40 of 2018, that they are required to comply with the provisions of the Tanzania Shipping Agencies (Fees for Clearing and Forwarding Services) Order, 2026,” read part of the notice.
The shipping agency said charging below the prescribed minimum fees contravenes the Order, which came into effect on March 20, 2026.
How It Will Affect Kenyan Importers
The directive could have implications for Kenyan clearing and forwarding firms that facilitate cargo through the Port of Dar es Salaam and Tanzania’s border posts.
Importers and exporters using Tanzanian trade routes may also face higher clearing costs as licensed agents adjust their charges to comply with the prescribed minimum fees.
TASAC also directed agents to use prescribed electronic systems when declaring and charging fees for clearing and forwarding services to facilitate compliance and improve government revenue collection.
According to the agency, the electronic system will enhance regulatory monitoring, improve operational efficiency, strengthen the collection of industry statistics and create a more predictable logistics environment.
The regulator warned that any person who fails to comply with the Order will face enforcement measures under the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Act and its accompanying regulations.
Also Read: Kenyans Brace for Higher Diaper and Mitumba Costs as EAC Gazettes New Import Duties
Tanzania Gazettes Shipping Fees
Under the 2026 Fees for Clearing and Forwarding Services Order, TASAC set minimum agency fees for import, export and transit shipments by sea, road and air.
The prescribed charges varied depending on the type of cargo and mode of transport, with higher fees applying to larger containers, heavy machinery and transit cargo.
The table below details the minimum charges for clearing and forwarding services across different modes of transport.
Also Read: KRA Announces Fresh Excise Duty Guidelines for Manufacturers and Importers
| Shipment Type | Cargo/Service | Mode of Transport | Minimum Fee (USD Equivalent) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Import | 20-foot container | Sea/Inland Waterways | 150 |
| 40-foot container | Sea/Inland Waterways | 200 | |
| Dry bulk cargo | Sea/Inland Waterways | 0.6 per MT | |
| Bulk liquid | Sea/Inland Waterways | 0.6 per MT | |
| Motor vehicle | Sea/Road | 130 per unit | |
| Heavy machinery & equipment | Sea/Road | 250 per unit | |
| Live animals | Sea | 90 | |
| Loose cargo (LCL) | Sea | 90 | |
| Post entry & Ex-bond | Sea | 60 | |
| Coastwise transire | Sea | 90 | |
| 20-foot container | Road (Border) | 130 | |
| 40-foot container | Road (Border) | 190 | |
| Live animals | Road | 60 | |
| Loose cargo (LCL) | Road | 60 | |
| Parcel/Courier | Air | 60 | |
| General cargo | Air | 90 | |
| Live animals | Air | 60 | |
| Export | 20-foot container | Sea/Inland Waterways | 150 |
| 40-foot container | Sea/Inland Waterways | 200 | |
| Dry bulk cargo | Sea/Inland Waterways | 0.6 per MT | |
| Bulk liquid | Sea/Inland Waterways | 0.6 per MT | |
| Motor vehicle | Sea/Road | 130 per unit | |
| Heavy machinery & equipment | Sea/Road | 250 per unit | |
| Live animals | Sea | 90 | |
| Loose cargo (LCL) | Sea | 90 | |
| 20-foot container | Road (Border) | 130 | |
| 40-foot container | Road (Border) | 190 | |
| Live animals | Road | 60 | |
| Loose cargo (LCL) | Road | 60 | |
| Parcel/Courier | Air | 60 | |
| General cargo | Air | 90 | |
| Precious metals/minerals | Air | 130 |
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