Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has announced new regulations tightening the age limit for second-hand motor vehicle imports into the country.

This is part of its mandate to uphold quality standards under the Standards Act, Cap. 496, and other relevant legislation.

The revised rules, aimed at aligning imports with the Kenya Standard Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles (KS 1515:2000), will come into force on January 1, 2025.

In a directive addressed to importers, KEBS stated: “Only Right Hand Drive (RHD) motor vehicles whose Year of First Registration is from 1st January 2018 and later shall be allowed into the country effective January 1, 2025.”

The notice also emphasised that the new age limit will apply to all importers, including returning residents, diplomatic staff, and members of the general public.

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To meet compliance standards, all imported vehicles must adhere to KS 1515:2000 and possess a Certificate of Roadworthiness (CoR) from Quality Inspection Services Inc. Japan (QISJ), where KEBS has authorised inspection agencies.

Countries under this regulation include Japan, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Thailand, Singapore, and South Africa.

Vehicles registered in 2017 will face stricter deadlines. KEBS clarified: “The Certificates of Roadworthiness for vehicles whose year of first registration is 2017 will not be valid after December 31, 2024. All vehicles issued with such certificates must arrive at the Port of Destination/Entry by 31st December 2024.”

Failure to meet this deadline will render vehicles non-compliant, with KEBS cautioning: “Any vehicle registered in 2017 or earlier, arriving after 31 December 2024 will be deemed not compliant with KS 1515:2000 and shall be rejected at the importer’s expense.”

This shift is expected to significantly impact Kenya’s second-hand vehicle market, with stricter quality measures ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Importers are urged to observe these new guidelines to avoid incurring financial losses.