Doing Business with Kenya

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scapartner

A practical guide to exporting, investing, incorporating, manufacturing, and operating in Kenya.

Key Contacts

Kenya Investment Authority (KenInvest)
Promoting investments in Kenya – International Trade
📞 +254 730 104 200 | ✉ info | 🌐 www.invest.go.ke

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)
International Trade & Tax Authority
📞 +254 204 999 999 | ✉ callcentre | 🌐 www.kra.go.ke

Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI)
Business networking & advocacy
📞 +254 203 927 000 | ✉ info | 🌐 www.kenyachamber.or.ke

National Treasury & Economic Planning
Economic policy and guidance
📞 +254 202 252 299 | ✉ info | 🌐 www.treasury.go.ke

Kenya at a Glance

  • Government: Presidential Republic
  • Population: ~54 million
  • GDP: $110B USD
  • Corporate Tax: 30%
  • Personal Income Tax: Up to 30% (progressive)
  • Major Exports: Tea, coffee, horticulture, textiles
  • Major Imports: Machinery, transport equipment, petroleum, vehicles

Exporting to Kenya

  1. Research Market Requirements – Check regulations, standards, and product certifications.
  2. Identify Local Partners – Distributors, agents, or local representatives.
  3. Prepare Export Documents – Commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin.
  4. Arrange Logistics & Shipping – Choose experienced exporters, complete shipping docs.
  5. Customs Declaration – Work with brokers to clear goods and pay duties.
  6. Distribution & Sales – Build local channels and partnerships.

Key Contacts:

  • KRA
  • Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency (KEPROBA)

Importing to Kenya

  1. Register as an Importer – KRA Importer Code; register with KenTrade Single Window.
  2. Classify Goods – HS codes for duties/taxes.
  3. Check Import Regulations – KEBS standards, permits, and certifications.
  4. Arrange Shipping & Logistics – Freight forwarders, shipping docs.
  5. Customs Declaration – Submit IDF via KenTrade; use customs broker if needed.
  6. Pay Duties & Taxes – As per KRA regulations.
  7. Receive Goods – Transport to warehouse/distribution center.

Key Contacts:

Investing / Incorporating in Kenya

  1. Company Name – Reserve via eCitizen.
  2. Incorporation Documents – Memorandum, Articles of Association, director IDs.
  3. Register with BRS – Business Registration Service
  4. Pay Fees – KES 10,000–30,000 depending on share capital.
  5. Tax Registration – Obtain KRA PIN.
  6. Register Employees – NSSF & NHIF contributions.
  7. Open Corporate Bank Account – With incorporation documents.

Key Contacts:

Manufacturing in Kenya

  1. Market Research – Analyze demand, competitors, and location advantages.
  2. Location & Zoning – Industrial zones for tax incentives; permits from local authorities.
  3. Incorporate Company – Register via BRS.
  4. Permits & Licenses – Construction, NEMA environmental assessments.
  5. Secure Financing – Banks, investors, or venture capital.
  6. Design & Build Facility – Architects, contractors, building codes.
  7. Install Equipment & Hire Staff – Skilled labor, training, safety standards.
  8. Set Up Supply Chain & Distribution – Suppliers, distributors.
  9. Begin Operations – Production, quality control, monitoring.

Key Contacts:

Trademark Registration

  1. Search – Ensure uniqueness via KIPI.
  2. Application – Submit online/in-person with trademark details.
  3. Fees – Application: ~KES 5,000 per class; Registration fees apply.
  4. Examination & Publication – Respond to objections; allow opposition period.
  5. Registration & Renewal – Valid 10 years, renewable indefinitely.

Key Contact: KIPI

Commercial Dispute Resolution

  1. Negotiation – Direct settlement.
  2. Mediation – Faster, informal resolution.
  3. Arbitration – Private, binding (e.g., NCIA).
  4. Legal Advice – Consult specialized lawyers.
  5. Court Proceedings – File lawsuit if needed; attend hearings.
  6. Judgment Enforcement – Ensure compliance via legal channels.

Key Contacts:

Doing Business Insights

  • Social & Cultural: English & Swahili; relationships and trust are key.
  • Political: Stable presidential republic; bureaucracy can be complex.
  • Economic: Open, diverse economy; corporate tax 30%.
  • Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES).
  • Legal: Strong property and IP rights; legal processes may be lengthy.
  • Infrastructure: Developing; improving transport and energy.
  • Workforce: Skilled, tech-savvy, entrepreneurial.

Resources:

Ask Our Experts
Looking to invest or expand in Kenya? Our team provides expert guidance, market insights, and local connections to ensure your success.

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