The Government through the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) has introduced new importation fees for phytosanitary services with effect from July 15, 2024.
In a notice on June 25, KEPHIS noted that the fees will apply to various aspects of produce, products, vessels, and aircrafts.
“Pursuant to the provisions CAP 324 (Legal Notice No. 48 of 2009, Part B), notice is hereby given that with effect from 15th July 2024, the following fees are applicable,” reads part of the statement.
Further, KEPHIS noted that, for fresh produce exports, there will be charges for obtaining a phytosanitary certificate and inspection. The amount to be paid will be calculated based on the weight of the produce, starting at 50 cents per kilogram.
Additionally, there will be an extra fee of KShs. 500 for each phytosanitary certificate issued.
Fees for Fresh Products
Imported Agricultural Produce/Products will incur fees for Plant Import Permit and Inspection, with rates starting from 50 cents per kilogram, along with additional charges per certificate or permit.
Also Read: Govt Announces New Taxes for Select Businesses
In terms of vessel inspections, fees will be levied for different types of vessels based on size. An empty ship inspection/survey will cost KShs. 10,000 while large vessels of over 10,000 metric tons will be charged KShs. 5,000 respectively.
Small vessels like Dhows & Canoes, with a capacity of less than 10,000 metric tons, will attract a fee of KShs. 1,000.
Additionally, charges for inspections of large containers (40ft) and small containers (20ft) are outlined and will face a fee of Kshs. 1,000 and Kshs 500.
Moisture content determination per sample incurs a fee of KShs. 1,000, while inspections of large and small aircraft will cost KShs. 3,000 and KShs. 1,500, respectively- according to the notice.
In addition, quality examination of minor consignments will have a fee of Kshs. 5,000 per consignment.
Govt Introduces New Taxes for Select Businesses
Earlier in May, the government through the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) announced the imposition of new taxes on imports and exports of all food crops produce to or from Kenya.
In a notice dated May 28, AFA noted that new taxes will be applied to all importers and exporters of food crops starting from July 1, 2024.
Also Read: Uproar Over New Taxes Imposed by Govt for Select Businesses
AFA mentioned that the decision to implement these taxes came after discussions with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Production, county governments, and other relevant parties.
Under the new rates, those importing cereals will need to pay 2.0% of the custom value, while exporters will pay 0.3% of the custom value. For legumes and pulses, importers will be charged 2.0% of the custom value, and exporters will have to pay 0.3% of the custom value.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C
