Market
Raisins (dried grapes) in Kenya function primarily as an import-dependent processed fruit product consumed as a snack and as an ingredient for home baking and foodservice. UN Comtrade data (via World Bank WITS) indicates Kenya imported 462,178 kg of dried grapes (HS 080620) in 2023 (about USD 607,960), with Turkey the leading supplier by value. Exports are small in comparison, indicating Kenya is not a significant origin supplier for raisins. Market access and smooth clearance are strongly shaped by KEBS conformity assessment requirements (PVoC/CoC) and KRA electronic customs processing (iCMS) including IDF charges.
Market RoleNet importer and consumer market (import-dependent)
Domestic RoleRetail snack and baking ingredient category in modern trade, with evidence of local retail packing/branding alongside imported brands.
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighNon-compliance with KEBS PVoC requirements (including missing/invalid Certificate of Conformity where required) can block or significantly delay clearance of imported raisins at entry.Confirm whether raisins fall under applicable mandatory standards for PVoC; complete pre-shipment conformity assessment with KEBS-appointed agents and ensure CoC details match shipping documents.
Documentation And Fees MediumErrors in electronic customs processing (iCMS), valuation, or shipment documentation can trigger delays and additional charges; KRA applies an Import Declaration Fee (IDF) as part of importation.Use an experienced clearing agent; validate HS classification (e.g., HS 080620 for dried grapes) and ensure invoice, packing, and consignee details are consistent before shipment.
Food Safety MediumRaisins are sensitive to food safety compliance around additives and labeling (e.g., sulphur dioxide preservative where used) under Kenya’s food labeling/additives framework.Perform label and specification review against Kenya’s Food Labelling, Additives and Standards Regulations; obtain supplier COA and ensure declared preservatives match formulation.
Quality MediumMoisture ingress and poor storage conditions can degrade raisins (clumping, mold risk) and create non-compliance risk given Codex expectations that moisture reduction assures preservation.Specify moisture-protective packaging, keep product in cool/dry storage, and require container/warehouse pest-control and hygiene procedures.
FAQ
Does Kenya require a KEBS Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for imported raisins?Kenya uses the KEBS Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) program to assess products for compliance with applicable Kenyan technical regulations and mandatory standards in the exporting country. When raisins are within scope of applicable mandatory requirements, an appropriate Certificate of Conformity (or documented exemption where applicable) is a key clearance enabler at the port of entry.
What is the Import Declaration Fee (IDF) and how is customs processing handled in Kenya?KRA indicates that import documentation is processed electronically on the Integrated Customs Management System (iCMS), typically through a clearing agent. KRA also states that an Import Declaration Fee (IDF) of 2% of the customs value is payable as part of the import process.
Is there an internationally recognized product standard reference for raisins specifications?Yes. Codex Alimentarius publishes the Codex Standard for Raisins (CXS 67-1981), which defines raisins as dried grapes and covers product description and handling/packing concepts, including bulk packs intended for repacking into consumer-size containers.