The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intercepted illicit goods worth Sh5.766 billion in a three year period to June 2024, amidst patrols that seek to counter illegal trade in the country.
The illicit goods included products from non-compliant taxpayers (businesses and individuals), counterfeits, contra bands and sub standards, ones not certified with the Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs).
KRA boasts that the seizure demonstrates the Authority’s robust efforts in protecting national revenue and ensuring market integrity.
“Contrary to common perceptions, KRA’s mandate extends well beyond revenue mobilization and collection. It encompasses critical functions such as border control and security, essential for safeguarding Kenya’s economic and public well-being,” KRA notes.
Illicit trade poses adverse effects on the country’s economic landscape, ranging from revenue collection risks to national security, challenging both the economy and public health.
In the period under review, KRA conducted 28,851 patrols along Kenyan borders, from which 1,215 interventions were registered , leading to the seizure of over 100,000 products with counterfeit or invalid stamps, as well as prohibited items like cigarettes and ethanol.
Data by the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) shows Kenya is losing at least Sh100 billion annually in revenue due to infiltration of counterfeit and related illicit trade in the local market.
The Authority’s Intellectual property crime study report released last year says the figures, which could increase further, paints a worrying trend on the extent of counterfeiting and other forms of illicit trade in the country.
The taxman’s comprehensive approach towards curbing illegal trade involves several specialised departments that work cohesively to enhance market surveillance and counter illicit trade.
To strengthen border security, KRA says it has implemented a series of strategic initiatives, for instance a dedicated border security unit which monitors cargo and human movement to prevent tax evasion and address security threats.
“Additionally, KRA officers actively participate in local security committees, sharing intelligence to combat illegal activities at border points.”
It adds that the integration of advanced technology such as cargo scanners, K9 units and marine boats has significantly bolstered KRA’s capability to intercept and address illicit trade, more so in Kenyan waters.
Between July 2021 and June 2024, KRA reports that it has managed to establish additional Rapid Response Units (RRUs) in Marsabit, Garissa, Kitale, Isiolo and Emali to enhance rapid intervention capabilities.
“Inland Border Control Checkpoints (IBCCs) were also set up at strategic locations including Archers Post, Madogo, Kisian, and Adugosi, enhancing border security,” it says.
“Nevertheless, K9 units were deployed at critical points such as Isiolo and Moi International Airports,as well as Taveta, Loitoktok, and Busia One-StopBorder Posts (OSBPs) to bolster detection efforts.”
KRA adds that operational Marine Units were also introduced at Lamu Port and Muhuru Bay in the period under review to oversee maritime activities.
