The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) runs the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) programme. Regulated goods must carry a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) issued in the exporting country, before shipment. Goods that arrive without one face destination inspection charges, delays and possible rejection. Global Approbation arranges testing, inspection and the CoC from India, and moves regular exporters onto cheaper registration or licence routes.
Regulated goods shipped to Kenya need a KEBS PVoC Certificate of Conformity, issued before shipment by a KEBS-appointed PVoC service provider. Route A covers one consignment, Route B registration is valid 1 year and Route C licensing is valid 3 years. Goods with a Non-Conformity Report are not allowed into Kenya.
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- Regulator: Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS)
- Certificate: Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
- Routes: A: per shipment · B: 1 yr · C: 3 yrs
- PVoC fee: ≈0.50–0.60% of FOB (min $300, max $3,500)
PVoC Routes: Which One Fits You?
| Route | How it works · Best for · Validity |
|---|---|
| A: Consignment inspection & testing | Testing plus physical inspection of each consignment · first or occasional shipments · single consignment |
| B: Product registration | Registration using recognised test reports, with surveillance inspections · frequent shipments of consistent products · 1 year |
| C: Product licensing | Factory audit and testing for manufacturers with a quality system · manufacturers exporting regularly · 3 years |
💡 Fees published in KEBS PVoC Manual v15 (Feb 2026): Route A 0.60%, Route B 0.55% and Route C 0.50% of FOB value, subject to a US$300 minimum and US$3,500 maximum. Goods arriving without a CoC face destination inspection at 0.6% of customs value.
Products Commonly Certified for Kenya
- Electrical and electronic goods
- Auto spare parts, tyres and batteries
- Building materials, steel and cement products
- Textiles, garments and footwear
- Plastics, packaging and household goods
- Toys and children’s products
- Solar products and lighting
- Chemicals, paints and cosmetics
Documents Checklist
- Request for Certificate (RFC) form
- Proforma invoice and packing list
- Test reports from ISO/IEC 17025-accredited labs
- Product labels (English), photos and specifications
- ISO 9001 certificate (for licensing)
- Importer’s PIN and details
Step-by-Step Process with Global Approbation
- Classification. HS code and applicable Kenya Standard (KS) or approved international standard confirmed. (1 day)
- RFC & documents. Request for Certificate lodged with the PVoC service provider for India. (1–2 days)
- Testing. Samples tested, or recognised test reports reviewed. (5–15 days)
- Inspection. Pre-shipment inspection (and container sealing where required). (2–4 days)
- CoC issued. Certificate of Conformity issued and shared with your importer for clearance. (Before shipment)
Common Mistakes Indian Exporters Make
- Loading the container before inspection is complete
- Labels missing English text, country of origin or manufacturer details
- Staying on Route A despite regular exports when registration or licence routes cost less
- Test reports from non-accredited labs
Kenya PVoC: Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if goods arrive in Kenya without a PVoC certificate?
They are subject to destination inspection at 0.6% of customs value (minimum US$300, maximum US$3,500) and may be delayed or rejected. Goods issued with a Non-Conformity Report are not allowed into Kenya.
Who issues the Kenya CoC for goods from India?
A KEBS-appointed PVoC service provider responsible for India issues it after testing and inspection. The current contracts run 2026–2029.
Is PVoC mandatory for all goods?
It applies to goods listed as regulated products. KEBS publishes exemptions, for example certain raw materials for manufacturers with a quality track record, diplomatic goods and EAC-made goods with a certificate of origin.
Can I get a PVoC licence as an Indian manufacturer?
Yes. Route C product licensing is designed for manufacturers with an effective quality system. It involves a factory audit and testing, and the licence is valid for three years.
Regulations, portals and fees change frequently. Requirements are confirmed product by product during our applicability review. Global Approbation is a consultancy; certificates are issued by the relevant authority, accredited certification body or notified body.