Importing from China to Kenya
We help Kenyan importers buy from Chinese factories and ship to Mombasa. Sea freight usually takes about 20 to 30 days. Most regulated goods need a certificate of conformity under KEBS's pre-export verification (PVoC) programme before they leave China. Goods arriving without one are inspected at the port, at extra cost.
2 min readUpdated
At a glance
- Sea freight from China to Mombasa usually takes about 20 to 30 days.
- Most regulated goods need a KEBS PVoC certificate of conformity before shipping.
- Goods arriving without the certificate are inspected at the port and pay an extra fee.
- Kenya applies the East African Community tariff, plus VAT and import levies.
Who we work with in Kenya
Kenya is the main gateway to East Africa, and Mombasa serves Uganda, Rwanda and South Sudan as well as Kenya. Our Kenyan clients include importers and distributors in Nairobi and Mombasa, retailers, hotels and restaurants, and businesses buying equipment and building materials.
Shipping from China to Kenya
| Route | Typical transit |
|---|---|
| Sea freight to Mombasa | About 20 to 30 days |
| Air freight to Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International) | About 4 to 8 days |
KEBS PVoC: certificate of conformity
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) runs the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity programme (PVoC). For regulated goods, the products are checked, and tested where needed, in China before shipping, by a company appointed by KEBS. If they comply, it issues a certificate of conformity (CoC), which you need to clear the goods in Kenya.
Goods that arrive without a valid certificate are inspected at the destination instead, which costs more and takes longer. KEBS renewed its PVoC contracts in 2026, so check the current arrangements and fees for goods from China with KEBS before you ship.
There are different routes depending on how often you ship and the supplier's quality record, from inspecting every consignment to registering or licensing products. We'll ask the supplier for test reports early, so the inspection goes smoothly.
Not sure what you need?
Tell us about your product and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.
Duties, VAT and levies
Kenya applies the East African Community common external tariff, with duty bands that depend on the product. VAT and import levies are added on top. Check your product's tariff code and current rates with the Kenya Revenue Authority or your clearing agent, and use our landed cost calculator to see the full cost.
Import declarations are lodged through Kenya's trade single window, KenTrade, usually by a licensed clearing agent.
Documents for importing into Kenya
- Commercial invoice and packing list.
- Bill of lading or air waybill.
- Certificate of conformity (PVoC) for regulated goods.
- Import declaration through KenTrade.
- Any product-specific permits, for example for food or pharmaceuticals.
How we help Kenyan buyers
- 1We find and check suppliers before you pay a deposit.
- 2We collect test reports and samples, so the PVoC inspection goes smoothly.
- 3We inspect the goods ourselves before the balance is paid.
- 4We arrange freight to Mombasa with partner forwarders and check the documents.
Common questions
How long does shipping from China to Mombasa take?
By sea, usually about 20 to 30 days port to port. By air to Nairobi, about 4 to 8 days.
What happens if goods arrive without a PVoC certificate?
They're inspected at the port of arrival instead, which costs extra and delays clearance. It's much better to get the certificate before shipping.
Can you ship to Uganda or Rwanda through Mombasa?
Yes. Partner forwarders can arrange transit through Mombasa to neighbouring countries.