The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has issued fresh regulations for importing special-purpose left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles into Kenya, including ambulances, fire tenders, construction equipment, and rally cars. Under the updated KS 1515:2000 guidelines, such vehicles must now be pre-shipment inspected and come with a Certificate of Roadworthiness (CoR) from Quality Inspection Services Japan (QISJ). These measures are designed to curb the influx of illegally converted or unsafe vehicles and protect Kenyan road users. The new rules take effect for shipments arriving from January 1, 2025.
Why the Change Matters
- Safety first: KEBS flagged cases where LHD vehicles, particularly from Dubai, were illegally converted to RHD, compromising their structural integrity
- Protect consumers: The updated rules aim to prevent fraudulent practices, including using uncertified or tampered LHD vehicles marketed as roadworthy.
- Regulatory consistency: The pre-shipment inspection by QISJ ensures that all special-purpose vehicles comply with Kenyan safety standards before arrival .
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What Importers Must Do
- Pre-shipment inspection is mandatory
Special-purpose LHD vehicles must be inspected by Quality Inspection Services Japan (QISJ). Without an authentic Certificate of Roadworthiness, these vehicles will be refused entry. - You’ll need CoR and drive-status confirmation
The inspection must verify that the vehicle remains LHD and has not been illegally converted to RHD. Any suspicion of tampering will result in shipment rejection. - Countries affected
Although KEBS inspection agencies operate in Japan, UAE (Dubai), the UK, Thailand, Singapore, and South Africa for used RHD vehicles, similar scrutiny now applies to new or special purpose LHD vehicles, especially from Dubai.
What Could Go Wrong
- Shipment refusal: Vehicles without proper pre-shipment CoR will be barred at the port of entry — no exceptions.
- Harsh penalties: Importers may face costly outcomes, including shipping delays and fines, especially if authorities detect illegal drive conversions.
- Reputation risk: Dealers caught bypassing these rules may face brand damage and lose customer trust.
Geo-Relevant Impacts across Kenya
- Nairobi & Mombasa ports: Major entry points for imported vehicles—strict compliance here ensures national road safety.
- Fire & rescue services: Ambulances and fire trucks must go through proper channels to avoid delays and emergency response gaps.
- Construction firms nationwide: Heavy machinery must meet KEBS standards before being deployed on-site to avoid legal or operational setbacks.
Recommendations for Importers
- Engage early with QISJ, especially for special-purpose vehicles sourced from Dubai or other LHD hubs.
- Verify CoR authenticity and ensure the certificate clearly states unconverted LHD status.
- Document every step: Keep records of inspection, shipping, and KEBS correspondence for compliance verification.
- Stay updated: KEBS frequently issues circulars—subscribe to official portals or communications to avoid surprises.
For all Kenyan importers of special-purpose LHD vehicles, KEBS’s 2025 regulations are a non-negotiable shift. By enforcing pre-shipment inspection and roadworthiness certification, KEBS aims to improve public safety and eliminate fraudulent vehicle imports. Compliance is not just beneficial—it’s legally required. Reach out to KEBS or QISJ offices before initiating imports to guarantee smooth entry and maximise value for your investment.
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