The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced the implementation of a new Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) platform for all containerized cargo destined for Kenyan ports
Effective 03 August 2026: Under this new regulatory requirement, a valid ACD Reference Number must be obtained prior to cargo loading and endorsed on the Bill of Lading.
Effective 01 September 2026 onwards: Vessel carriers will be required to validate the ACD Reference Number prior to loading and ensure containers are loaded at origin only when a valid ACD Reference Number has been obtained.
ACD FORMAT: ACD Number consist of 15 Digit Alphanumeric format.
For Eg.: ACDKE2026004324
ACDKE – 5-letter prefix reference name and country initials.
2026 – 4-digit year
004324 – 6-digit sequential reference number received from KRA
Note – ACD Reference Code is a mandatory requirement for shipment processing and must be endorsed on the Bill of Lading before the cargo is dispatched to Kenya
Required Documents for ACD Draft :
- Draft Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Freight Invoice
- Export Declaration
Non Compliance
From 01 September 2026, only containers supported by a valid ACD Number will be eligible for loading. Shipments without a valid ACD Number may be rolled to a subsequent vessel and import customers may be subject to customs penalties and other regulatory actions for non-compliance.
For detailed information visit : https://initiators.co.in/ectn-certificate-services/
or contact – 8691044499 / anuradha@initiators.co.in /