The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has announced significant changes and notified all second-hand car importers that any vehicles registered in 2017 or earlier must arrive in Kenya by December 31, 2024.
Vehicles failing to meet this deadline will be deemed non-compliant with KS 1515:2000 and will be penalised at the point of entry at the importer’s expense.
According to KEBS, this move also affects returning residents, diplomatic staff and the general public.
The notice read as, “We wish to notify all importers of used / second-hand motor vehicles including returning residents, diplomatic staff and the general public that in observance of clause 2.5 of KS 1515:2000 on the eight (8) year age limit requirement, only Right Hand Drive (RHD) motor vehicles whose Year of First Registration is from January 1, 2018 and later shall be allowed into the country effective January 1, 2025.”
In addition, vehicles imported from countries where KEBS has an inspection agency (including Japan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Thailand, Singapore, and South Africa) must be accompanied by a Certificate of Roadworthiness (CoR). This certificate must be issued by an approved inspection company contracted by KEBS. The development comes as the State seeks to support local car assembly as more manufacturers set up bases in the country.
Conclusion
As these changes approach, all stakeholders involved in importing vehicles into Kenya must stay informed and prepared.
For more information on compliance and regulations, visit the KEBS website or contact their offices directly.
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