Importers Get 100% Waiver on Storage and Customs Rent at Mombasa Port

Mombasa, Kenya—The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) have jointly announced a 100% waiver of accrued Port storage charges and Customs warehouse rent for long-stay containerised cargo at the Port of Mombasa.

The decisive move, effective from November 6, 2025, aims to significantly enhance efficiency and alleviate congestion at East Africa’s busiest seaport.

The measure, which follows a joint communique issued on the same day, grants a full waiver to affected customers who apply. The KPA, led by Managing Director Capt. William K. Ruto, and the KRA, represented by Dr Lilian Nyawanda for the Commissioner General, affirmed that the waiver is a critical step towards improving the port’s operational fluidity.

In an additional measure to ensure the prompt removal of containers, Shipping Lines have been directed to issue a corresponding 100% waiver on accrued container demurrage charges.

The joint notice, however, makes it clear that other key financial obligations remain payable. “Kindly note that all primary port charges, rail freight charges, shipping line fees (Delivery Order and Terminal Handling Charges) and statutory taxes remain payable,” the notice specified, confirming that core costs for port services and government revenue collection will not be affected.

30-Day Window for Clearance

The waiver is applicable for a limited period of 30 days, expiring on December 6, 2025. This deadline sets an urgent timeline for cargo owners and clearing agents to complete all necessary formalities and remove their long-stay containers.

The directive is a key outcome of the recent Joint KPA-KRA Communique on Measures to Enhance Efficiency at the Port of Mombasa.