NEMA Announces Major Change for Importers Starting September 28 — What You Need to Know
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The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), in partnership with the Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade), has automated the process of opting Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PINs for NEMA Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) permit.
The new system will take effect on September 28, 2026, according to a public notice dated September 23. Under the new automated system, importers applying for NEMA EPR certificates will have their KRA PINs opted in directly through the Trade Facilitation Platform (TFP).
NEMA and KenTrade said the change will remove the need for officers to manually opt in PINs during the application process.
The agencies said the automated process will allow importers to complete the PIN opting process through the Single Window System.
EPR Permit Service to Be Available 24/7
NEMA and KenTrade said the new system will make EPR applications faster and more efficient.
“This enhancement is intended to result in: Fast, seamless and efficient EPR Application and Processing,” the notice states.
The agencies also said the system will provide 24/7 service availability, eliminate manual intervention and improve the user experience.
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Part of Kenya’s EPR Compliance Framework
The automation comes as Kenya continues to implement its Extended Producer Responsibility framework, which requires manufacturers and importers to take responsibility for their products throughout their life cycle, including the management of post-consumer waste.
Under the Sustainable Waste Management (Extended Producer Responsibility) Regulations, 2024, importers of products listed in the regulations are required to apply for an EPR import certificate at the point of importation and pay the applicable fee.
The certificate forms part of the mandatory clearance and inspection documents for covered products.
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What Importers Need to Provide
NEMA’s regulations require an EPR import certificate application to include details of the importer, information on the type and quantity of products being brought into the country, and proof of payment of the required fee.
The new process targets importers, clearing agents and other stakeholders involved in NEMA EPR permit applications. NEMA and KenTrade said automation will improve operational efficiency by reducing manual processes involved in PIN opting.
The agencies urged importers and other relevant stakeholders to take note of the changes ahead of the September 28 implementation date.
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