The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced that starting December 1, 2025, all bank guarantees will be executed and managed exclusively through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS).
The move is aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability in customs operations, affecting importers, exporters, clearing agents, and other stakeholders.
In a notice issued on Tuesday, KRA emphasized that the transition to the ICMS platform is mandatory: “Stakeholders are therefore advised to ensure that all future Bank Guarantees are processed within the ICMS platform in compliance with this directive,” the notice read in part.
The authority emphasized that the automation of bank guarantees will streamline processes, reduce delays, and provide a more secure and reliable method of managing guarantees.
The transition is part of KRA’s broader push to digitize customs services and minimize manual errors. The authority warned that it will not accept responsibility for payments made outside the system.
“KRA notifies taxpayers that it will not accept responsibility for payments not received, credited, and validated in the relevant KRA accounts,” the notice cautioned.
To assist stakeholders with the transition, KRA has provided several support channels. Clients can reach the KRA contact centre on (020) 4999 999 or 0711 099 999, or visit the nearest KRA office. Mobile users can also access services via the USSD code *222# free of charge.
KRA reiterated its commitment to combating corruption in customs operations. The public is encouraged to report any irregularities through the dedicated corruption reporting line at +254 726 984 668 or email [email protected]. Other complaints or inquiries can be directed to the Complaints & Information Centre on +254 709 017 700/800 or [email protected].
The ICMS, already used for a range of customs procedures, will now serve as the sole platform for executing bank guarantees, marking a significant step in Kenya’s digital transformation of its revenue and customs management systems.
KRA says the change will improve compliance, promote transparency, and ensure a more efficient service delivery for all stakeholders.
