The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) on Tuesday, April 11, published changes in requirements for the importation of electronic devices among 6 other products.
In a notice, the government agency announced that the importers will be required to have a permit from the agency when declaring the importation of the products.
Other products affected by the changes include alcoholic beverages, cosmetics, footwear, and clothing accessories.
Clothing, apparel, and mechanical appliances were also included on the list.
According to the notice, the changes are expected to take effect from May 1.
It was explained that the move was aimed at combating the emergence of counterfeits in the market which hampers businesses and companies in the long run.
"As part of our continued commitment to combating counterfeiting in Kenya, we are expanding this process to include additional HS Codes effective May 1, 2023.
"Please note that all consignments falling under the selected categories of HS Codes, whose Import Declaration Forms (IDF) applications are lodged from May 1, 2023, must be accompanied by the ACA permit (Form ACA 2B) in accordance with the provisions of Section 34B of the Anti-Counterfeit Act and the Anti-Counterfeit Recordation Regulations 2021," read the notice in part.
However, it was noted various categories of goods were exempted from the permit requirement such as diplomatic goods and donations, raw materials, small quantities for private and domestic use, and transit and transhipment goods.
Used second-hand goods, machine and machinery parts used for manufacturing and goods that are in completely knocked down condition were also included in the exempt list.
Consequently, importers were advised to visit the ACA website and familiarise themselves with the codes and the specific products affected by the changes.
According to ACA's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Robi Njoroge, the country loses an average of Ksh800 million every year through the trade of counterfeit goods.
