The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced that beginning December 1, 2025, all bank guarantees for customs operations will be executed and managed exclusively through the Integrated Customs Management System (iCMS).
In a public notice issued by the Commissioner for Customs and Border Control, the tax agency said the move is part of its ongoing digital transformation agenda aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and compliance in customs processes.
“The Kenya Revenue Authority wishes to inform all stakeholders including importers, exporters, clearing agents, and other customs stakeholders that effective 1st December 2025, all Bank Guarantees shall be executed and managed exclusively through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS),” the notice dated November 12 stated.
KRA noted that the automation will eliminate manual handling of bank guarantees, reduce processing time, and enhance data integrity across customs operations.
The change is also expected to tighten controls and reduce potential risks associated with paper-based documentation and fraudulent guarantees.
Stakeholders have been urged to ensure that all future bank guarantees are processed within the iCMS platform in line with the directive. The authority further assured users of technical support and guidance during the transition period.
The move aligns with KRA’s broader modernisation strategy under the Customs and Border Control Department, which seeks to create a seamless and technology-driven trade environment.
The iCMS platform, already used for processing imports, exports, and transit cargo, integrates all customs services under one digital system to facilitate faster and more transparent trade operations.
Traders or clearing agents seeking assistance can reach the KRA Contact Centre via Tel: (0) 20 4 999 999, 0711 099 999, or visit the nearest KRA office.
KRA also reminded users that they can conveniently access its services by dialing *222# free of charge.
A bank guarantee is a financial security document issued by a bank on behalf of an importer or exporter to assure KRA that any taxes, duties, or fees owed will be paid.
When traders import or export goods, they sometimes need to move the goods before paying all customs duties or taxes, for example, when goods are under bonded storage, transit, or temporary importation.
To allow this, KRA requires the trader to provide a bank guarantee, which is like a promise from the bank that it will pay KRA the owed amount if the trader fails to do so.
