The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has formally announced the introduction of the Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) Platform, a strategic digital initiative designed to optimize customs oversight and improve the efficiency of trade logistics at all Kenyan ports. Scheduled to become operational on Monday, August 3, 2026, this system represents a fundamental shift in the management of containerized cargo, transitioning the maritime logistics framework toward a mandatory, pre-arrival digital compliance model.
The ACD platform functions as a sophisticated digital notification system that mandates the submission of comprehensive cargo details prior to the loading of goods at their port of origin. By facilitating the transmission of shipping data well in advance of a vessel’s arrival, the KRA enables its customs officials to conduct rigorous risk assessments, thereby enhancing both national security and fiscal oversight. This proactive digital approach serves as a critical measure to curb illicit activities, including smuggling, tax evasion, and the unauthorized entry of prohibited goods.
Beyond security enhancements, the implementation of the ACD platform is expected to foster greater predictability within the regional supply chain. While the new system introduces an additional layer of administrative compliance, the KRA anticipates that the increased transparency will expedite the processing of legitimate shipments. By reducing the reliance on manual, post-arrival documentation, the initiative aims to minimize port congestion and improve the overall efficiency of cargo clearance, ultimately aligning Kenya’s customs infrastructure with global best practices and strengthening its position as a primary logistics hub in East and Central Africa.
Compliance with the new mandate is required for a wide array of international trade stakeholders, including exporters, importers, shipping agents, carriers, and customs brokers. To ensure adherence to the new requirements, exporters must obtain an official ACD reference code through the dedicated online portal at acd.kra.go.ke before any cargo is dispatched. The generation of this code requires the digital submission of four essential shipping documents: a draft Bill of Lading, a commercial invoice, a freight invoice, and an export declaration. Once issued, this reference code must be endorsed on the Bill of Lading prior to the cargo’s movement toward any Kenyan port.
Recognizing the operational adjustments necessitated by this transition, the KRA is encouraging all relevant parties to familiarize themselves with the platform’s technical requirements immediately. The authority has established dedicated support resources to assist stakeholders in navigating the new digital workflow and to address any inquiries during the implementation phase. Through the adoption of this digital-first strategy, the KRA intends to create a more transparent, secure, and efficient trade environment, ultimately supporting national economic growth and facilitating a more robust ease-of-doing-business climate for the maritime sector.
