Importers and cargo operators will have more flexibility in choosing electronic cargo tracking service providers under a new Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) framework aimed at reducing delays and improving the movement of goods across borders.
In a statement on October 27, KRA announced the rollout of the Multi-Vendor User-Owned Electronic Seals Framework, replacing the single-vendor arrangement the authority has relied on since 2017.
“Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has today commenced the rollout of a Multi-Vendor User-Owned Electronic Seals Framework aimed at improving cargo tracking, reducing operational delays and enhancing the efficiency of cross-border trade,” the statement read.
KRA Rolls Out Cargo Tracking Plan
The new system allows users to select participating electronic seal providers and agree on commercial arrangements that suit their operational needs, potentially improving the availability of tracking devices at cargo tagging points.
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KRA said the framework was designed to address challenges experienced under the previous system, including shortages of electronic seals and the use of ageing devices that may not function properly.
The rollout follows a notice issued on October 16 announcing the transition to a Multi-Vendor User-Owned e-Seal Framework under the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS).
In the notice, KRA said its electronic seals used to track dry cargo and motor vehicles would stop operating from October 26, with approved vendors taking over the provision of cargo tracking devices. It also said it would gradually phase out e-fuel seals used to monitor wet cargo.
The authority also said it would progressively phase out KRA-owned e-fuel seals used to monitor wet cargo.
“The new framework introduces a more flexible and competitive model for the provision and management of electronic seals (e-seals) used to monitor the movement of goods under Customs control,” the authority stated.
How the New KRA Cargo Tracking System Works
Under the new arrangement, vendors or users will own and manage electronic seals used to track goods under Customs control, depending on the commercial agreements between the parties.
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The seals will be linked to the East African Community’s Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS), enabling KRA to track cargo in real time from departure to destination.
KRA said the technology had helped reduce cargo diversion, smuggling and theft, improving the security of goods transported under Customs supervision.
The authority will retain its oversight role to ensure that cargo operators comply with Customs requirements and that goods moving under its control remain secure.
KRA Expects Faster Cargo Clearance
The multi-vendor framework is expected to improve access to electronic seals when needed, particularly at cargo tagging points where shortages have contributed to queues and delays.
Better devices are also expected to reduce unnecessary tracking alerts that can trigger enforcement interruptions, helping cargo operators avoid delays and improve turnaround times.
KRA said the framework would strengthen private-sector participation in cargo tracking while maintaining the authority’s responsibility for Customs compliance.
“The rollout forms part of KRA’s broader commitment to facilitating legitimate trade, strengthening Customs compliance and adopting innovative, technology-driven solutions that improve service delivery across the trade and logistics value chain,” the authority stated.
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