The Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) has proposed introducing a permit processing fee for ICT equipment import applications submitted through the Ken Trade National Electronic Single Window System (NESWS).
In a notice on March 17, CA stated that the evaluation process will be done in three stages.
“The evaluation process consists of three stages: checking, verification, and inspection, to ensure that all ICT equipment imported into the country complies with applicable technical and regulatory requirements,” part of the notice read.
The Authority notifies all members of the public, importers, exporters, customs clearing agents, licensees, and other participants in the ICT sector of the fee through the NESWS.
Under the fee proposal, importers, exporters, customs clearing agents, and other ICT sector players will now be required to pay a processing fee whenever they use the system to import equipment.
Additionally, the Authority has called all members to submit written representations on the proposed fee on or before April 30, 2026.
Evaluation of the import permits through checking submitted documents, verifying compliance details, and conducting inspections before approving any ICT equipment entering the Kenyan market is among the roles of the Communication Authority of Kenya as noted in the notice.
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Details of the Proposed Fee on NESWS by CA
The National Electronic Single Window System (NESWS) is established under the NESWS Act of the Kenyan law. The system is administered by an agency that maintains its integrity and security.
In addition, the agency may levy nominal fees for its services, as prescribed in Regulations in accordance with the Act.
Agencies are also expected to facilitate, through the System, the collection of any other dues as agreed upon by relevant Government ministries, departments, or agencies as provided for under any written law.
The system serves as a single entry point and platform for anyone involved in trade and transport.
It allows an individual to upload electronically required documents for either export or import processing and approval.
According to the NESWS Act, the system facilitates electronic payment for fees and levies on goods imported or exported to the government for all transactions submitted through the system.
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Objectives of the System
- Facilitate the single-entry point submission and receipt of documents or any other information required for trade facilitation.
- Enable the synchronized processing of data or information.
- Allow electronic transactions in trade and reduce legal and operational barriers to electronic transactions.
- Help in the coordination and partnership among the departments responsible for customs, other relevant Government ministries, Government entities or agencies, and industry players dealing with trade or trade facilitation.
A consultation paper detailing the proposed charges has been published on CA’s official website https://www.ca.go.ke/open-consultations to help stakeholders understand the implementation framework.
