Get a NEMA licence to import, export or produce ozone-depleting (controlled) substances
National Environment Management Authority · sources read 3 Oct 2026
Apply through the Kenya Single Window (KESWS) well before your shipment, attach the filled NEMA form and pay the fee (import or export licence from KSh 10,000, plus a per-consignment permit from KSh 1,000). NEMA decides within 21 days and the licence lasts one year.
- Fee
- KSh 100,000Licence to produce controlled substancesKSh 30,000Licence to import or export: 200,000 kg and aboveKSh 20,000Licence to import or export: 100,000 kg to 199,000 kgKSh 10,000Licence to import or export: smallest band (from 1 kg)KSh 3,000Permit per consignment: 200,000 kg and aboveKSh 2,000Permit per consignment: 100,000 kg to 199,000 kgKSh 1,000Permit per consignment: smallest band (from 1 kg)
- How long
- Decision within 21 days
- Where
- Online on the Kenya National Electronic Single Window System (KESWS), run by KenTrade. NEMA head office: Popo Road, South C, off Mombasa Road, Nairobi.
What you need
- The filled NEMA import application (Form 7 for the substance; Form 8 for equipment containing it)
- For exports: a Prior Informed Consent form from the importing country's authority
- A material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the substance
Steps
- Apply on the Kenya Single Window System (KESWS) early, before the goods are shipped or production starts.
- Submit the filled application form with all the required documents and accurate information, and pay the fee.
- If you import or export in several batches, apply for a permit for each consignment.
- Show the permit to customs officers at the port of entry or exit.
Watch out
- The licence lasts one year. To renew, you must report what you imported, exported or produced the year before.
- Import without a valid licence and you pay NEMA's cost of disposing of the goods.
- Producers, importers, exporters and sellers must file records with NEMA every three months.
Who can apply
- Anyone who produces, imports or exports ozone-depleting (controlled) substances, or equipment that contains or uses them.
- Fridge and air-conditioning technicians and servicing companies must also be registered and licensed by NEMA.
Official sources (5)
- Environmental Management and Co-ordination (Controlled Substances) Regulations, 2025 (L.N. 53 of 2025) nema.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026
- Laws and Guidelines: Controlled Substances nema.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026
- NEMA Service Charter 2025-2027 (Booklet) nema.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026
- NEMA Resolved Service Charter 2025-2027 nema.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026
- Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade) kentrade.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026