What You Should Know About Shipping Restricted Goods into Kenya
Every country has a list of prohibited goods that cannot be imported, and Kenya is no exception. Read on to learn more about some of the products that require special documentation to enter Kenya.
Understanding the Difference between Restricted and Prohibited
It is first important to note that there is a clear distinction between restricted and prohibited items. Restricted goods are products whose importation needs authorization from a regulatory body. These products may also be liable to quantitative limitations. You will need written proof to import restricted goods into Kenya.
Various regulatory bodies in the country often publish a list of restricted imports and also explain the application process for restrictions and how shippers can import the goods with ease. These regulations are subject to change from time to time for specific goods. Traders and travelers should thus contact the Customs Services Department (CSD), regulated by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), before shipping any goods.
On the other hand, prohibited goods are ones forbidden by authority or Kenyan law and cannot be imported into the country under any circumstances.
Restricted Items in Kenya
While the following items are not prohibited in Kenya, you must obtain valid and authentic permission before shipping them there. You must also clear the goods at the Kenyan Customs border upon arrival. These products include:
- All forms of shaped or processed ivory
- Historical products
- All types of unprocessed ivory
- Genetically modified products
- Fencing foils, arrows, and bows
- Firearm ammunition or parts. You must have a written authorization letter from the police to enter Kenya with arms.
- While you can import plant products or plants into Kenya, you must have a specialized plant importation authorization.
- Animals are only allowed to transit as cargo
- If you are shipping meat, you will need to declare the products at the Kenyan customs desk to get clearance. Regulatory bodies may sometimes deny these products entry.
- Wild birds from bird flu-infested countries must be accompanied by a sanitary import authorization from the Director of Veterinary Services.
- Coral and related products, unprocessed molasses shells, cattle-bone, and crustaceans
- Tortoiseshell, bone, coral, horn, whalebone hair and whalebone, antlers, hoovers, mother-of-pearl, claws, nail and beaks, and all forms of animal carving products.
Why Do Countries Impose Importation Restrictions?
Import restrictions are imposed in many countries to protect domestic markets from foreign competition. This is known as protectionism, and it is used by many countries to meet internal trade and political demands. Make sure you are aware of all restricted items beforehand to avoid possible conflicts.
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