KPA’s tariff hike draws uproar ahead of September rollout
The changes, announced on Thursday, replace the rates set in 2012 for services including marine operations, ship dues, stevedoring, shore handling, wharfage, storage, and other general services.
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has rolled out new, higher tariffs set to take effect on September 15, 2025, in a move that has drawn strong opposition from transporters and clearing agents who warn it could drive business away from Mombasa Port.
The changes, announced on Thursday, replace the rates set in 2012 for services including marine operations, ship dues, stevedoring, shore handling, wharfage, storage, and other general services.
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They were introduced after consultations with port users in Kenya and East Africa, and later approved by the Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary, Davis Chirchir.
According to KPA, the adjustments are in line with the authority’s mandate under Section 30 of the Kenya Ports Authority Act, CAP 391, 1978.
“These charges shall apply equally to all port users, including and not limited to shipping lines/agents, cargo agents, charterers, brokers, freight forwarders, consolidators, shippers, or consignees,” the notice stated.
However, industry stakeholders have criticised the new structure, citing sharp increases and additional charges.
Kenya Transporters Association chairman Newton Wang’oo said they were shocked by the rise in port pass fees from Sh3,000 to Sh15,000.
“The increment will not only affect Kenyan trucks but also other East African transporters who have other options for taking their trucks. We have Dar es Salaam right on our doorstep, and it can be another option,” Wang’oo said as quoted by the Daily Nation.
Clearing and forwarding agents have also taken issue with the introduction of a $300 annual operations licence fee, saying it is unlawful since they are already licensed by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
Former Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association chairman Roy Mwanthi said the move is without legal basis.
“This is the first time KPA is bringing in the charges, which only apply to Kenyan ports. Agents pay $300 (Sh38,760) to KRA for licensing, which regulates them; hence, the new fee is illegal,” said Mwanthi.
Mombasa-based agent Leonard Njiru warned that the added costs will further strain the sector, especially after Tanzania barred Kenyan agents from working at its ports earlier this month.
“We have lost business in Dar es Salaam and now the Kenyan government has introduced charges which will ultimately affect our operations,” said Njiru.
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