KEBS public notice: Expiry of PVoC contracts and implications for imports into Kenya

As a result, former PVoC service providers can no longer accept new Requests for Certification (RFCs). All RFCs submitted before this date will still be processed, provided that a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) or Non-Conformity Report (NCR) is issued by 28 February 2026.

New arrangements for shipments after 8 February 2026

For shipments dispatched from 9 February 2026 without a valid CoC, the goods will be subject to Destination Inspection upon arrival in Kenya. Importers are required to pay an inspection fee equivalent to 0.6% of the approved customs value.

New PVoC contracts and SGS as service provider

KEBS has now announced the newly awarded PVoC contract. SGS is accredited as the PVoC service provider for the following designated zones:

• Zone 2: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
• Zone 3: Japan, South Korea
• Zone 4: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines
• Zone 5: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay
• Zone 6: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan
• Zone 7: Iraq, Jordan, Türkiye
• Zone 8: Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen

Note: For all other countries not listed above, shipments will be subject to Destination Inspection. It is still unclear how shipments from China will be handled, as there appears to be an exception. We are closely monitoring the situation and hope to provide an update soon.

Responsibilities of exporters and importers

• Exporters: Can no longer request a CoC for goods destined for Kenya that are not exported from the zones listed above. However, exporters can assist importers by providing the necessary quality documents.
• Importers: Must either have their goods inspected upon arrival or ensure that quality documents are provided in advance through KEBS Pre-Arrival Processing. This can be achieved by:
  1. Product testing in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories based on Kenya Standards.
  2. Product registration or certification under the KEBS Diamond Mark Scheme.

Advice for exporters and importers

1. Ensure complete and accurate documentation before shipping goods to Kenya.
2. Communicate closely with the importer regarding test results and certificates to avoid delays upon arrival.
3. Monitor KEBS updates or our website for further details on PVoC service providers and inspection procedures.

Update PVoC Kenya – Process for Shipments from China Confirmed

February 12, 14:15pm | There is now clarity on the PVoC process for shipments from China to Kenya. KEBS has appointed new inspection bodies for the PVoC programme covering China. Both Cotecna and Intertek are authorized to support exporters and issue Certificates of Conformity (CoC) for regulated goods shipped from China to Kenya.

What this means in practice:

• Shipments from China (including Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Mongolia) can again follow the standard PVoC certification process.
  
• A CoC can be obtained via Cotecna or Intertek prior to shipment.
• When a valid CoC is issued before export, Destination Inspection in Kenya is not required by default.
  
• Exporters and importers can proceed with the regular PVoC route through these designated providers.

We are currently in discussions with both Cotecna and Intertek to determine which provider best aligns with our service and processes for our customers.

Need support? We're here to help

The recent KEBS changes directly impact your import and export processes. Uncertainty about inspection requirements, documentation, or applicable zones can quickly lead to delays and unexpected costs.

At Pincvision, we support you with export documentation, conformity procedures, and customs compliance. We help you prepare complete files, align with the correct inspection routes, and stay in control of your shipments to Kenya.

Do you want clarity about your specific situation? Get in touch. We are happy to help.