New Import Rules for Used Vehicles by KEBS from January 2025
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has recently announced significant changes in the regulations concerning the importation of used and second-hand motor vehicles into the country. These new rules are set to take effect on January 1, 2025, and are aimed at enhancing road safety and improving the overall quality of vehicles on Kenyan roads.
Stricter Age Limits and Certification Requirements
Under the updated guidelines, only right-hand drive vehicles that were first registered on or after January 1, 2018, will be permitted to enter Kenya. This marks a significant shift from the previous regulations and is in line with the Kenya Standard Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles (KS 1515:2000), which includes an age limit for imported vehicles.
According to KEBS, vehicles with registrations before 2017 will be prohibited from entering the country once the new rules come into effect. The enforcement of an eight-year age limit is a proactive measure to ensure that only modern, roadworthy vehicles are allowed on Kenyan roads.
Impact on Importers and Certification Process
Importers are now required to obtain a Certificate of Roadworthiness (CoR) from a KEBS-approved inspection service before importing vehicles from countries where KEBS has a designated inspection agency, such as Japan, the United Kingdom, and South Africa. The CoR will only be valid until December 31, 2024, for vehicles registered in 2017.
Any vehicle arriving in Kenya after the specified date with a 2017 registration will face rejection, and the importer will bear the costs associated with the rejection process. These stringent measures emphasize the importance of compliance with the new regulations to avoid any financial setbacks or delays in importing vehicles.
Commitment to Safety and Environmental Standards
Director of Quality Assurance at KEBS, John Mwangi, highlighted that these regulations are part of a broader effort to align Kenya’s vehicle inspection standards with international best practices. The ultimate goal is to reduce the importation of outdated and substandard vehicles, ensuring that all vehicles entering Kenya meet the highest safety and environmental standards.
Importers, including returning residents and diplomatic staff, are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new rules and ensure that their vehicles comply with the specified requirements. By adhering to these guidelines, importers can avoid costly rejections at the port of entry and contribute to a safer and more sustainable transportation environment in Kenya.
As a frequent traveler to Kenya, I understand the challenges faced by motorists in navigating the country’s diverse road conditions. The implementation of these new import rules signifies a positive step towards enhancing road safety and ensuring that only quality vehicles are allowed on Kenyan roads. By prioritizing compliance with these regulations, importers can play a crucial role in promoting a safer and more sustainable transportation landscape for all road users.