The Kenya Transporters Association (KTA) announced a suspension of all cargo loading that requires the Kenya Revenue Authority’s (KRA) new electronic cargo seal system, saying the added expense is commercially unsustainable for transporters.

In a statement obtained by Kenyans.co.ke on 4 November, KTA instructed its members to immediately cease any activity involving loading cargo that needs user‑owned multi‑vendor Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) seals.

The association argues that the mandatory cost of customs monitoring has been shifted to transporters without a viable cost‑recovery mechanism, making the requirement unfair and financially burdensome.

KTA also directed members to stop purchasing, leasing, or contracting with seal providers until KRA approves a sustainable cost‑recovery agreement.

The association warned that the new charges could erode the competitiveness of Kenya’s Northern Corridor, a key trade route for landlocked neighbours such as Uganda.

KRA, which rolled out the system on 26 October, says the electronic seals are intended to improve cargo tracking, reduce delays and enhance cross‑border trade efficiency.

The upgrade replaces the single‑vendor seal arrangement in place since 2017, aiming to address shortages of functional seals at tagging zones and to give transporters flexibility in choosing service providers.

KRA expects the new multi‑vendor model to increase seal availability, cut queue times, minimise unnecessary tracking alerts and speed up cargo clearance while maintaining customs oversight.

KTA said it is seeking urgent legal advice and will consider court proceedings to protect transporters’ interests against the imposed costs.