Importers of left-hand drive and special-purpose vehicles that are older than eight years will now be required to meet new conditions before bringing the units into the country, according to a notice issued by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).

The new requirements are part of a waiver policy that KEBS rolled out on June 24 to guide the importation of specialised vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines, and large construction trucks.

While the general age limit on imported vehicles remains in place, the bureau has opened a controlled window for exceptional cases, allowing for waivers under strict conditions.

To qualify, KEBS stated that importers must first provide proof that the vehicle has been customised to meet a specific function.

This applies particularly to those classified under the special-purpose category.

The second requirement is that the importer must submit a full service record of the vehicle, showing a consistent maintenance history to prove that the unit is in working condition and fit for use.

Lastly, KEBS said that the vehicle in question must not have been in use for more than 20 years from the date it was manufactured.

This is meant to ensure that older vehicles brought into the country are still reliable and safe.

“All importers of special-purpose vehicles are encouraged to apply for and obtain the requisite waivers before shipping the said units into the country to avoid inconveniences. Please be guided accordingly,” KEBS advised.

KEBS urged importers to complete their applications in advance to avoid delays or denial of entry once the vehicles arrive at the port.

It further directed all stakeholders to review the full details of the waiver requirements on the KEBS website.

“Details regarding the waiver requirements for the importation of special-purpose vehicles are available on www.kebs.org, and all stakeholders are advised to review and familiarise themselves with these requirements before initiating any importation process,” read the notice.

All imported vehicles are subject to the Pre-export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) to ensure they meet Kenyan standards.

KEBS noted that vehicles which fail to pass these checks are normally barred from entering the country, leaving importers to absorb the cost.

By setting these new guidelines, KEBS aims to maintain safety and quality standards while still offering a flexible approach to the importation of essential but older special-purpose vehicles.