KRA records 4.9% increase in customs revenue as modernisation efforts pay off

KRA records 4.9% increase in customs revenue as modernisation efforts pay off

The growth is part of a broader 11.1% surge in general revenue collection, contributing to a total of Sh2.407 trillion in the fiscal year.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has recorded a significant 4.9% increase in customs revenue for the 2023/2024 financial year, totalling Sh791.368 billion, compared to the same period in FY 2022/2023.

This growth is part of a broader 11.1% surge in general revenue collection, contributing to a total of Sh2.407 trillion in the fiscal year.

Speaking during the International Customs Day 2025 celebrations held on Friday, KRA's Commissioner General, Humphrey Wattanga attributed the revenue growth to KRA's ongoing efforts to modernise customs procedures and enhance compliance measures.

Wattanga attributed the significant revenue growth achieved by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to the implementation of a world-class customs culture.

He emphasized that this success was not just the result of increased enforcement, but also a deliberate, strategic approach to transforming how customs operations are conducted at both a national and international level.

"Over the past three decades, KRA has grown from a fledgling organisation to a cornerstone of Kenya's economy. For 30 years, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that revenue collection, trade facilitation, and border management remain robust and adaptive to the challenges of an evolving world. Customs, as a key department within KRA, has played a pivotal role in this journey," said the KRA commissioner.

He emphasised the importance of innovation in revenue collection, noting that the authority's use of technology, including automation and digital tools, has played a key role in increasing efficiency and reducing the risks of fraud.

The Commissioner General highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and best practices to strengthen customs operations worldwide.

Eng. John Tanui, the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, stated that efficiency in customs operations is crucial for enhancing service delivery.

"Efficiency in customs operations is key to better service delivery.KRA has set the standard by embracing modernisation and leveraging technology," said Eng. John Tanui.

The International Customs Day, celebrated every year on January 26th, serves as a platform for customs administrations around the world to reflect on their progress and discuss strategies for improving global trade, security, and compliance.

The event also focuses on strengthening the role of customs in the facilitation of trade and the protection of national economies.

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