URA Urges Importers, Clearing Agents to Utilise 100% Waiver on Mombasa Port Charges

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has informed all importers, clearing agents, and other stakeholders of a 100% waiver on Mombasa Port charges for long-stay containerised cargo.

According to a public notice issued by URA, the waiver—implemented jointly by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA)—covers accrued port storage charges and customs warehouse rent at the Port of Mombasa. The waiver took effect on November 6, 2025, and will run for 30 days, ending on December 6, 2025.

URA said the decision is part of a regional effort to ease congestion at the Port of Mombasa and support cross-border trade, particularly for Ugandan importers who rely heavily on the port for cargo clearance.

“URA informs all importers, clearing agents, and other stakeholders of a 100% waiver on Mombasa Port charges,” the notice reads in part. “The waiver applies upon submission of a waiver application by affected customers. Importers and agents are encouraged to contact their shipping lines and port agents promptly to process the necessary documentation.”

As part of the directive, shipping lines have also been instructed to grant a 100% waiver on accrued container demurrage charges, which are typically among the biggest cost burdens for importers.

However, URA clarified that primary port charges, rail freight fees, shipping line delivery orders and terminal handling charges, and statutory taxes will still be payable.

The waiver presents a critical opportunity for importers and agents to clear long-stay containers and reduce storage backlogs. “We encourage all affected traders to take full advantage of this relief window,” URA emphasised.

Trade analysts note that the 30-day relief period will likely boost trade flows and decongest the port, ensuring faster delivery of goods to Uganda and neighbouring countries that depend on the Mombasa gateway.

The Port of Mombasa serves as Uganda’s main maritime entry point, handling over 80% of the country’s imports, including fuel, machinery, and consumer goods. High storage and demurrage fees have, in recent months, increased operational costs for traders, prompting calls for temporary relief.

Importers have until December 6, 2025, to apply and benefit from the waiver. After this date, normal storage and demurrage charges will resume. URA urged all Ugandan importers with long-stay cargo to take advantage of this 30-day window and clear their goods promptly.