Imports and exports

In Kenya, Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) is the regulatory body mandated to regulate importation and exportation of plant and plant products in the country. The process involves issuance of relevant import/export documents, inspection of imported materials, certification of export material and inspection of containment facilities.

All requests for movement of biological materials as part of a scientific collaboration are directed to the State Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) through EOHS office. The following details should be submitted with request:

In Kenya, importation and movement of GMOs is undertaken with approval from National Biosafety Authority (NBA). In that approval process, KEPHIS is required to issue the relevant import and movement documents for plant and plant products.

• Send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. detailing your intent to either import or export a plant or plant product at least 5 working days in advance.
• For importation of plant and plant products into the country, submit duly completed PIP application form to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• For Exportation of Plant and Plant products in the country submit a duly completed Phyosanitary Application form to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Ensure for a phytosanitary application you already have an import permit from the recipient as it is required to be submitted together with the application.
• The permit will be processed in 5 days from application date and an email with a scanned copy of the permit will be sent once the permit is ready.
• Provide the project charge code for transport arrangements.

Required fees should be paid upfront when making the application. Liaise with EOHS on the mode of payment preferred.
• The fees required for a Plant Import Permit is currently at KES 600
• The fees required for a Phytosanitary Application is currently at KES 500
• The fees required for a Biological Import Permit is currently at KES 600
• Fees for Quarantine (Q) label is currently at KES 800