The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced that, starting 1st December 2025, all Bank Guarantees will be executed and managed exclusively through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS).
In a statement on November 12, KRA said the move is part of its ongoing efforts to boost efficiency, transparency, and automation in customs operations.
The authority has urged importers, exporters, clearing agents, and other customs stakeholders to ensure that all future Bank Guarantees are processed through the ICMS platform in compliance with the new directive.
“Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) wishes to inform all stakeholders including importers, exporters, clearing agents, and other customs stakeholders that effective 1st December, 2025, all Bank Guarantees shall be executed and managed exclusively through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS),” read part of the statement.
Additionally, KRA has urged stakeholders to call 020 4 999 999 or 0711 099 999 or visit the nearest office for any assistance.
Why KRA Implemented iCMS to Streamline Customs Processes
The authority implemented the Integrated Customs Management System (iCMS) to consolidate all existing Customs systems into a single platform.
The system was designed to interface with other internal and external systems, improving efficiency in Customs operations.
iCMS was expected to reduce clearance time for imports and exports by up to 60 per cent, replacing the current Simba 2005/2014 system, which relies on multiple subsystems and user authentication.
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The system enables Kenya to exchange Customs declaration information with ASYCUDA, which is used by other East African Community (EAC) member states.
This enables countries relying on the Mombasa port—including Rwanda, Uganda, South Sudan, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo—to track cargo movement.
iCMS features automated processes, including auto-upload of shipping manifest data, information exchange with iTax, and a virtual electronic auction platform.
These functions were intended to reduce paperwork and streamline Customs transactions.
Also Read: KRA Announces New Cargo Clearance Rules Affecting Importers
Rolling Out Automated Payment Plan for Tax Liabilities
On November 12, introduced a new Automated Payment Plan (APP) mechanism, a system-driven solution that allows eligible taxpayers to settle outstanding tax liabilities—including principal tax, penalties, and interest—through structured instalments.
To qualify for the APP, taxpayers must:
- Hold a valid KRA PIN and be fully compliant with iTax registration and profile.
- Have a confirmed tax liability in the KRA system that is not under active litigation.
- Demonstrate a genuine inability or impracticality to settle the full liability in a single payment.
- Submit a proposed instalment schedule via iTax or other designated KRA portals, subject to system approval.
- Ensure that the instalment period does not exceed six months.
The authority stated that failure to adhere to the agreed payment schedule may result in termination of the plan and enforcement actions, including revocation of the Tax Compliance Certificate and other legal recovery measures.
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