Intertek supports exporters and importers trading with Kenya by providing conformity assessment and inspection services required to obtain a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) under the Kenya Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) to Standards Programme.
To safeguard end consumers and protect public safety, the Kenyan authorities, through the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), require regulated products to demonstrate compliance with applicable Kenyan technical regulations, mandatory standards, and approved international equivalents prior to shipment.
Introduced in 2005, the PVoC Programme strengthens market controls on imported goods while enabling smoother and more predictable customs clearance. For products covered under the programme, a certificate of conformity must be issued in the country of export before shipment. Non-compliance may result in customs delays, financial penalties, or rejection and re-export of goods.
As a KEBS-recognised conformity assessment body, Intertek helps exporters comply with PVoC requirements through document review, inspection, and testing where applicable, ensuring shipments meet Kenyan standards before arrival.
Certificate of Conformity (CoC) Requirements for Kenya
- Every consignment containing regulated products must be accompanied by a PVoC Certificate of Conformity issued prior to shipment
- The CoC is a mandatory document for Kenyan Customs clearance
- The certificate confirms compliance with relevant Kenyan technical regulations and approved standards
- Kenyan authorities may conduct random verification sampling at the point of entry
- All products fall under the PVoC scope unless specifically exempted under KEBS criteria
Intertek has been working with exporters to Kenya since 2005 and has issued millions of certificates and test reports globally. Exporters can be confident that Intertek certificates are recognised and trusted by Kenyan Customs authorities.
How to Arrange an Inspection:
1. Contact your local Intertek office – details are available in the contact us section of this site.
2. An Intertek export consultant will review your shipment requirements and provide a same-day quotation, including applicable terms and conditions.
3. Submit the required export documentation, which may include:
- Certificate of Origin
- Test Reports (where applicable)
- Letters of Credit
- Packing List
4. Upon receipt, Intertek will arrange a mutually convenient date, time, and location for inspection and/or verification activities.
5. If results are satisfactory, your certificate of conformity will be issued prior to shipment, supporting smooth customs clearance in Kenya.
International Trade Conformity Certification
Exporters, importers, and traders wishing to place products in the markets in which programmes are in place must have the necessary certification to clear Customs. This overview will explain the basics of what you need to know.
Exports to East and West Africa
Learn about the process of obtaining mandatory Certificates of Conformity for exports to East and West African countries with Conformity Assessment Programmes and how Intertek can assist.
Remote Inspection with Inview
Minimise disruption to your trade business with our Inview remote inspection solution.
Expedited Trade with FastTek
FastTek is a customised global trade solution that provides expedited certification to get trade moving faster.
Suggested topics:
