New higher charges for services at the ports of Mombasa and Lamu started today, December 22, 2025. The Kenya Ports Authority, or KPA, rolled out its updated Tariff Book 2025 after a court case blocking it was dropped. The changes affect many users, from truck drivers to clearing agents and importers.
One big jump is the trucking fee at Mombasa port. It went from Sh3,000 to Sh15,000 per entry. That’s a 400 per cent increase. Truck operators call it too steep. They say it will hit transporters hard, including those from other East African countries who use Mombasa as a gateway.
Clearing and forwarding agents now face a new annual licence fee of about Sh38,772. Before, there was no such charge just for them. Other adjustments include higher rates for stevedoring, shore handling, and wharfage. Wharfage is the fee for goods using port facilities as they pass through.
KPA says the updates replace rates from 2012. They held talks with stakeholders and made system changes. The goal is to fund improvements and keep operations running. Managing Director William Ruto sent notices reminding customers that vessels arriving after midnight today pay under the new rules.
Not everyone agrees with the timing or amounts. Transporters and agents protested earlier. They argued some changes go against the KPA Act. A court had paused the rollout in September. Now that the case is over, the fees apply at both Mombasa and the smaller Lamu port.
Mombasa handles most of Kenya’s sea trade. Goods for Uganda, Rwanda, and beyond come through there. Higher costs could mean pricier imports. Importers often pass fees to consumers. Things like fuel, food, and building materials might see price bumps.
Lamu port is newer and smaller. It aims to ease pressure on Mombasa and serve northern routes. The same tariff applies there too. KPA hopes better facilities draw more ships.
Some licences jumped a lot. Specialised cargo handlers now pay over Sh2 million yearly in some cases. Truck operators for certain services face Sh1.5 million. Smaller providers pay around Sh1 million.
The changes come after delays from consultations and the legal fight. KPA says they follow the law. Stakeholders watch how it plays out. Truckers worry about lost business if costs drive trade elsewhere.
Ports keep Kenya connected to global trade. These fee updates aim to support that. But they add pressure during high living costs. Many hope efficiency gains offset the rises. For now, users adjust to the new rates starting today.
Business groups call for balance. They want competitive ports without extra burdens. The coming weeks will show the full impact.
