NAIROBI, Kenya — The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has proposed introducing new permit processing fees targeting players in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, in a move that could raise the cost of importing electronic equipment into the country.
In a directive issued on March 16, the regulator said the proposed charges will apply to all permits processed through the Kenya TradeNet System, formally known as the National Electronic Single Window System (NESW), a platform managed by Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade).
“The Authority hereby notifies all stakeholders, including members of the public, importers, exporters, customs clearing agents, licensees, and other participants in the ICT sector, of its intention to introduce a Permit Processing Fee for permits processed through the KenTrade National Electronic Single Window System,” CA said in a notice.
Under the proposal, importers, exporters, and clearing agents will be required to pay a fee each time they seek approval to bring ICT equipment into the Kenyan market through the system.
The directive is expected to affect key sectors, including telecommunications, e-commerce, cybersecurity, broadcasting, and postal and courier services, all of which rely heavily on imported technology.
CA said the move is aimed at supporting its regulatory mandate, noting that processing ICT import permits involves a structured review system.
“The Authority plays an important role in the importation of ICT equipment into the country by evaluating import permit applications submitted through the KenTrade National Electronic Single Window System,” the regulator said.
According to CA, the evaluation process consists of three stages — checking, verification, and inspection — to ensure that all imported ICT equipment complies with Kenya’s technical and regulatory standards.
The authority added that strengthening the process would help curb the entry of counterfeit and substandard ICT products into the local market, a concern that has persisted amid rapid growth in the digital economy.
Stakeholders across the sector have been invited to submit their views on the proposed fees as part of a public participation process running until April 30, 2026.
The consultation is expected to draw input from licensees, traders, clearing agents, and members of the public who interact with ICT imports across various sectors of the economy.
CA said a detailed consultation paper outlining the proposed fee structure and implementation framework has been published on its official website, with submissions required to be made electronically through designated communication channels.
