Sugar Importation Requirements in Kenya

In this article, you will learn on all the requirements that must be met before applying for a sugar importation license in Kenya.  As we stated earlier,  the importation of sugar into Kenya is regulated by the Agriculture and Food Authority. There are only 233 licensed importers in Kenya for mill white and industrial sugar.

Any person intending to import sugar into Kenya is supposed to apply for a license yearly from the Agriculture and Food Authority which cost Ksh 100,000. Applications are made between 1st July to 30th June of every financial year. Below are the documents that must be submitted along with the application letter.

1. Company Profile

2. Certificate of incorporation

3. Current Business Permit

4. Latest Audited Accounts

5. PIN/VAT Registration Certificate

6. Memorandum and Article of Association

7. Identification and Profile of Company’s Directors

8. Tax Compliance Certificate

9. Certificate of Good Conduct for Directors of the Company. Here is how to apply to apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct in Kenya.

10. Duly filled Crop Act, 2013 form. Download the form here.

Below are the requirements for renewals. 

1. Duly filled Crop Act, 2013 form. Download the form here.

2. Current Business Permit

3. Current Tax Compliance

4. Form E. Download Form E here

Pre-shipment approval  Requirements 

1. Copy of the customs entry documents

2. Proof of payment of taxes that are duly certified by the registered importer from whom the sugar was procured

3. Proof of payment for the sugar from the registered importer

4. Identification and contact details of the importer from whom dealer procured the sugar

5. Copies of the invoices and payment receipts relating to the sugar.

6. Quantity and type of Sugar

7. Country of Origin of the sugar

8.Intended time of importation

Note: After being registered as an importer one can apply for pre-shipment approval for quantities intended for importation in the next 1-3months. With a pre-approval, a permit is then issued.

Permit Requirements  

1.Dated Bill of Lading

2. Imports Declaration Form (IDF) – You can download it here.

3. Certificate of Origin

4. Commercial Invoice

Please note that :

  • You are not allowed to pack sugar into a different quantity, material or brand from the original packaging without the authorization of the Kenya Revenue Authority.
  •  A package of imported sugar, whether repackaged or in original packaging, must carry, in bold print, the name and contact details of the manufacturer, country of origin, consignor, and consignee.
  • A registered importer of sugar who wishes to rebrand a consignment of imported sugar must apply for authority from the Kenya Revenue Authority before rebranding the sugar.

Any person who does not comply with the above regulations shall be liable to a fine not exceeding ten million shillings.

Victor Matara

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