The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) intends to review its current service charges to reflect changes such as increased inflation and a weaker shilling, indicating a potential increase in importer costs.
The authority claims that the current tariff, which went into effect in December 2012, has been in place with minor changes since then, but it now wants to conduct a comprehensive review that will allow it to meet financial targets in terms of cost recovery and ensure profitability and operational objectives, while addressing service delivery to maintain competitiveness.
An upward review will result in higher costs for importers, who have previously seen a reduction in the free storage period as well as an increase in the cost of loading and unloading goods such as automobiles.
The KPA is now looking for a consultant to advise on the new tariffs, which will be in effect for five years, from 2024 to 2028, and will allow the port’s charges to reflect changes such as inflation, exchange rates, interest rates, and technology.
