How to Import Chemicals from China to Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide

Before importing chemicals, both the supplier and the Kenyan importer must complete the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC). This process ensures compliance with Kenyan technical regulations and standards. It involves sampling, analysis, and testing of chemicals in accredited laboratories, physical inspection before shipping, quality audits of production procedures, and verification of compliance documents.

There are four main routes for conducting PVoC in Kenya: Route A (Consignment Inspection and Testing), Route B (Product Registration), Route C (Product Licensing), and Route D (Consolidated Cargo Imports). Route A is the most common for single shipments. Select the route that best suits your product and export frequency.

The Kenyan importer must prepare and submit the Import Declaration Form (IDF) to the supplier. The IDF should detail the goods, including departure and destination, customs code, packaging, transport, valuation certificates, and goods code. Once prepared, the IDF is sent to the supplier to arrange the PVoC process with licensed international agencies.

The supplier will provide the original PVoC, bill of lading, commercial invoice, and packing list to the Kenyan importer. These documents are essential for customs clearance and must be submitted to the relevant Kenyan authorities.

Contact a clearing agent to assist with the import process. The clearing agent will handle the submission of the bill of lading, payment of shipping line charges, and obtaining the necessary consignment documents from the Kenyan Bureau of Standards (KEBS).

Submit the IDF, pay the merchant shipping levy and taxes, and obtain a pass entry. Ensure all necessary documents are submitted for verification to obtain a KEBS release and a Kenyan Revenue Authority (KRA) release.

Once all documents are verified and releases are obtained, create a pickup order with the Kenyan Ports Authority (KPA). Pay the necessary charges and obtain a position slip to facilitate the pickup of your chemicals from the port.