The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has introduced a new mandatory regulation requiring all importers must provide a “Certificate of Origin” also called “COO” for all goods entering the country.
In an announcement issued on July 9, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) issued a remonder that effective from July 1, 2025, it is mandatory for all consignments imported into Republic of Kenya to be accompanied by a Certificate of Origin (COO).
The COO should be issued by a competent authority from the country of export. The mandatory requirement is in line with the amended Tax Procedures Act (CAP 469B, Section 44A) under the Finance Act 2025, which is introduced to help the government verify where imported goods come from.
The authority warned that penalties for non-compliance will be imposed by seizing the imported goods, and those importers who fail to present a valid COO will not be allowed to clear their goods, and they risk losing them to the government.
According to Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), a competent authority issuing the COO refers to a government agency or officially designated body in the exporting country that is authorized to issue certificates of origin.
Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) gave importers until September 30, 2025, to adjust and get the required documentation.
The Certificate of Origin requirements:
- Name and address of exporter
- Name and address of importer
- Port of origin
- Accurate description of the goods
- Quantity of the goods
- Country of origin
- Country of destination
Where to get Certificate of Origin in Japan
The local authorities and/or “Made in Japan Organization” may help in issuing the certificate. For more detail contact by email at below
info@madeinjapan.or.jp