Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced a 12-hour shutdown of its Integrated Customs Management System (iCMS) on Sunday, September 13, temporarily affecting users who depend on the platform for customs-related services.
The maintenance is scheduled to start at 6:00 a.m. and run until 6:00 p.m., with KRA notifying all iCMS users to prepare for the period when the system will be unavailable.
In a notice issued on Thursday, September 10, the tax authority said the interruption is part of its planned maintenance work on the system.
KRA listed iCMS as the affected platform and said all stakeholders using the system should expect the disruption throughout the 12-hour period.
The authority also apologised for any inconvenience that may arise from the planned downtime.
"Any inconvenience caused is highly regretted," the notice read in part.
The announcement comes only days after KRA addressed concerns from the Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association (KIFWA), clearing agents, motor vehicle dealers and other stakeholders over the handling of cargo clearance.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 7, KRA defended the requirement for an export declaration when clearing imported goods, saying the process is supported by existing law.
The authority said its role involves enforcing laws passed by Parliament while ensuring that legitimate trade and business activities continue.
"KRA wishes to clarify that the requirements for an export declaration in the clearance of imported goods is anchored by law under Section 23B of the Tax Procedures Act.
"As a statutory institution, KRA is mandated to implement and administer legislation enacted by Parliament, while at the same time facilitating legitimate trade and business operations," the statement read.
KRA said it would continue discussions with stakeholders affected by the requirement as it seeks to ensure that the law is followed without creating unnecessary difficulties for legitimate businesses.
"KRA is committed to working closely with affected stakeholders to ensure that the implementation of statutory requirements promotes compliance while minimising unnecessary disruption to legitimate business activities," the statement added.
The authority also addressed complaints concerning the valuation of motor vehicles, noting that the issue is currently before the courts.
KRA said it would not comment on the specific valuation method while the case is still being considered by the court, citing the sub judice principle.
"With regard to motor vehicle valuation, KRA notes that the matter is currently before the Court.
"The Authority therefore refrains from commenting on the specific merits of the valuation methodology in accordance with the principle of sub judice, pending the direction and determination of the court," the statement further read.