KRA Clarifies Customs Changes, Denies Introducing New Taxes After Traders’ Protests

Following the protests by traders in Nairobi on August 28, 2026, over the increase in the consolidated cargo benchmark, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has responded to clarify exactly what has been increased.

The KRA chairman, Ndiritu Muriithi, says there is no new tax and that what has been increased is the benchmark expectation for a container’s yield.

“What has been increased is the benchmark expectation of the yield of a container. The percentage tariff has not changed at all. So if you have been importing goods and you are paying 25% or 30%, you will continue paying 25%,” he said.

According to Muriithi, the revised benchmark represents the expected customs value of a 40-foot container and is intended to facilitate trade rather than replace the legal requirement for importers to pay duty based on the specific goods they bring into the country.

Cargo Deconsolidation

He explained that traders retain the option to deconsolidate their cargo and have each consignment assessed individually at designated customs facilities, including the Railway Goods Shed in Nairobi.

“The truest and fairest way is for everyone to pay duty on the specific items they have imported,” he said.

Also Read: Mass Protests Erupt in Nairobi CBD as Traders Take on KRA

Muriithi also defended KRA officials against some political leaders, arguing that the law is not created by KRA but by Parliament, so they should not be blamed.

“KRA has no capacity to make the law. The law is made by Parliament, while customs duty is governed by the East African Community Customs Management Act,” he said.

Political Interests

He urged the traders to stop allowing political interests to influence the debate, saying KRA remains open to engaging stakeholders through public participation forums and citizen assemblies which are held across the country.

Also Read: KRA Puts YouTube Content Creators on Notice as Google Introduces 5% Tax

“However, let the truth be, you know, because nobody is entitled to their own facts. The benchmark rate is not a new tax. And people should stop saying it is new. The tariff rates have not changed,” said Muriithi.

Additionally, Muriithi maintained that taxation is applied uniformly to all businesses and individuals operating in Kenya and called for continued dialogue as concerns over the revised benchmark continue.

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