NACADA sets October deadline for new alcohol trade licensing system

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has announced that starting October 1, 2025, all import and export licenses for alcoholic beverages and related products will be processed through the Kenya National Electronic Single Window System, known as the Trade Facilitation Platform (TFP), managed by the Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade).

In a notice issued on Tuesday, August 26, NACADA said the move is intended to modernize how licensing and consignment documents are handled in the alcohol sector.

"The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) wishes to notify all stakeholders that, effective October 1st 2025, the processing of import and export licenses & consignment documents/permits for alcoholic drinks beverages and related products will be done through the Kenya National Electronic Single Window System (Trade Facilitation Platform - TFP managed by Kenya Trade Network Agency KenTrade)," the statement read.

According to NACADA, the new digital system will make applications easier while strengthening oversight of the industry.

"This integration is part of the Government's effort to streamline trade processes, enhance transparency, and improve regulatory oversight.

The shift will centralize the clearance of all alcoholic beverages and related products under NACADA, reduce manual processing and delays through automated workflows.

This, in turn, will strengthen compliance and data integrity across agencies," the statement added.

The authority clarified that the change only affects the application process.

Existing fees and charges remain unchanged under current laws, while payments will continue to be made through the eCitizen platform, which is already linked to the TFP system.

Licenses already issued before October 1, 2025, will remain valid for their entire period but will be captured in the new system to support automated consignment documents and faster cargo clearance.

NACADA urged industry players to prepare for the shift.

"All stakeholders are advised to prepare for the transition by familiarizing themselves with the Kenya National Electronic Single Window System in readiness for system onboarding. NACADA will provide the necessary support as may be required," the statement concluded.

The announcement comes just two months after the Ministry of Health issued new rules requiring all manufacturers, importers, distributors, and sellers of tobacco products to adopt Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs) on packaging.

In a gazette notice issued on June 13, the ministry said the warnings, which must be displayed in both English and Kiswahili, will become compulsory within nine months.

They include graphic visuals of the dangers of tobacco and are aimed at discouraging consumption while protecting non-smokers from exposure.

“This action represents a critical step in safeguarding Kenyans from the harms of tobacco use and aligns with Kenya’s obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC),” the ministry stated.