NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has issued a 30-day ultimatum to importers with cargo stuck at the Nairobi Inland Container Depot (ICD), warning that uncollected goods will be auctioned if not removed within the deadline.
In a notice published in the Kenya Gazette, KRA said the unclaimed goods would be considered abandoned after the 30-day period lapses.
The online auction is scheduled to run from November 10 to 14, 2025, through the authority’s official e-platform.
“Pursuant to the provisions of Section 42 of the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA) 2004 as amended, notice is given that unless the under-mentioned goods are entered and removed from the custody of the Customs Warehouse Keeper, Inland Container Depot, Nairobi, within thirty (30) days of this notice,” KRA said in the statement.
The authority has also set November 6 and 7, 2025, as the official viewing dates, allowing traders and prospective buyers to inspect the listed items at the depot during working hours.
The cargo earmarked for auction includes chocolates, cigarettes, wall panels, molasses, padlocks, lubricants, wines, clothing, thermal machines, spare parts, and bed sheets.
The goods, packed in containers ranging from 20 to 40 feet, have been held at the depot for months.
George Aduwi, the Chief Manager at the Nairobi ICD, said some consignments have remained in storage since April 2025, mainly due to unpaid customs duties and taxes.
“Delays typically arise when importers fail to meet their tax obligations, leaving goods in custody until the required payments are made,” Aduwi explained.
He added that logistical bottlenecks such as limited truck availability and transport delays also contribute to prolonged cargo clearance.
The move is part of KRA’s ongoing efforts to decongest storage facilities and recover revenue lost through unclaimed imports.
Auctions of uncollected cargo have become a regular exercise by the tax authority, aimed at ensuring compliance and freeing up space at major container depots.
