Kephis suspends cargo charges after backlash from traders

The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (Kephis) has suspended the cargo inspection fees it introduced at Mombasa port following opposition from the Council of Governors (CoG) and traders.

The charges, which took effect on March 1, 2025, required traders to pay Sh2,000 for a 20-foot container and Sh500 for a 40-foot container.

The move led to protests, with traders arguing that the extra costs were hurting businesses.

A letter from the CoG, Mombasa County, and the Kenya Ships Agents Association (KSAA) confirmed that the charges had been put on hold to allow more discussions with stakeholders.

“I wish to formally convey that the Council of Governors has confirmed the suspension of Kephis charges at the Port of Mombasa. This follows a consultative meeting convened on March 14, 2025, at the CoG offices in response to concerns raised by the County Government of Mombasa regarding the imposition of pest inspection charges by Kephis,” CoG chief executive Mary Mwiti wrote in a letter to KSAA chief executive Elijah Mbaru.

She added that the meeting agreed on a plan where Mombasa County would sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kephis.

This will help outline a clear process for container and vessel inspections, ensuring each entity operates within its responsibilities.

The suspension comes as a relief to traders and shipping agents who had described the charges as a burden on trade.

Kephis had earlier directed all shipping lines and agents to submit import and export manifests in advance to help with smooth inspections.

With the suspension in place, further discussions will determine the next steps for port inspections.