The East African Community (EAC) has implemented a significant increase in the duty-free allowance for personal effects entering Kenya.

This revision, effective July 1, 2024, aims to streamline customs clearance procedures and address previous concerns regarding product seizures.

Prior to this amendment, travellers were restricted to a Sh64,887 ($500) duty-free limit on personal belongings, leading to frequent instances of customs officials confiscating items exceeding the value.

The updated legislation, authorized by the EAC Council of Ministers, now grants passengers exemption from duty on goods valued up to $2,000, quadrupling the previous allowance.

"Goods up to the value of [$2,000] for each traveller ... shall be exempted when imported by the traveller in his or her accompanied baggage or upon his or her person and declared by him or her to an officer provided that the person has been outside the partner states for a period in excess of 24 hours," as stipulated in the official notice.

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This change is anticipated to expedite customs clearance processes and minimize disputes arising from duty assessments.

Previously, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) had established a maximum duty of Sh50,000 on personal effects to facilitate faster passenger processing at airports.

However, this approach generated confusion and complaints, particularly from travellers arriving from Dubai and China, who perceived themselves subjected to unfair taxation compared to passengers from other regions.

It is important to note that the increased duty-free allowance solely applies to personal effects accompanying passengers or carried on their person.

Specific items still require declaration upon arrival and departure, as outlined below:

Departing Passengers:

- Items shipped overseas for repair, along with accompanying tools, must be declared using a Temporary Importation Form-P45.

- Items intended for business promotion or commercial purposes.

- Electronic devices such as phones, video recorders, and projectors purchased in Kenya.

- Currency exceeding Sh1.29 million ($10,000).

Arriving Passengers:

- Newly acquired items, regardless of the acquisition method (purchase, inheritance, gift).

- Items exceeding the duty-free shop allowance.

- Donations (unless accompanied by the requisite documentation, such as Pro 1B documents typically used for diplomatic goods, and a special authorization from the Treasury).

Travellers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Kenyan customs regulations to ensure a smooth and efficient arrival and departure experience.