The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has increased the benchmark tax value for 40-foot containers to Ksh3.2 million, up from Ksh2.5 million, effective August 20, 2026. This measure aims to combat under-declaration of imported goods by traders.

• The new minimum reference point for general containerised cargo is now Ksh3.2 million.
• The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is the organization implementing this change.
• This adjustment is a reference point for customs valuation and not an automatic tax for every container, addressing concerns about misused cargo consolidation.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested a Busia Law Courts clerk in connection with a Ksh180,000 bribery scheme aimed at influencing a pending criminal case.

• Ksh180,000 allegedly demanded to secure a lenient ruling.
• The arrested individual is an Court Clerk attached to the Busia Law Courts.
• The case involves an impounded commercial vehicle and a promise of a softer outcome for the accused.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested two police officers attached to Kenya Power's Coast Regional Office for allegedly demanding a Ksh100,000 bribe.

• The officers were apprehended on Monday, August 24, after allegedly receiving Ksh50,000 as part of the bribe.
• The bribe was demanded from a resident accused of illegal electricity connection, with the officers promising to drop the investigation.
• The arrests highlight ongoing concerns about bribery involving public officers in the Coast region, following a recent incident with an immigration officer.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is intensifying its tax compliance efforts by increasing the customs benchmark value for consolidated cargo and extending checks to traders in informal markets like Eastleigh and Kamukunji.

• The customs benchmark value for consolidated cargo has been raised from Sh2.5 million to Sh3.2 million, effective August 20.
• The KRA is targeting traders reselling goods in informal markets, reminding them of business registration, electronic invoicing, and income declaration requirements.
• This move follows previous pushback from traders and freight forwarders regarding benchmark increases and aims to create a "level playing field" for businesses.