The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has released the names of nine inspection firms authorised to carry out Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) checks for general goods.
The announcement follows the temporary halt of PVoC inspections on 9 February after existing contracts for general goods expired a day earlier, on 8 February.
In a notice dated 18 February, KEBS said it had awarded the firms fresh contracts running for three years, effective from 19 February 2026.
KEBS explained that PVoC services are delivered by inspection companies engaged under a three-year contract framework, and confirmed that the listed firms will handle inspections for general goods over the next contract cycle starting 19 February 2026.
Approved Inspection Firms
According to the regulator, the following quality inspection companies have been appointed:
Quality Inspection Services Inc. (Japan)
China Hanson Inspection and Certification Co., Ltd.
Asia Pacific Testingtech (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd.
China Certification and Inspection Group Inspection Company Limited
Intertek International Limited
Cotecna Verification SA
TÜV Rheinland Middle East FZE
Bureau Veritas Kenya Limited
Société Générale de Surveillance (SGS) SA
Compliance Under the New Framework
KEBS noted that the specific countries and zones allocated to each inspection firm are outlined in the PVoC manual, which is available on the bureau’s website.
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All importers and other stakeholders have been directed to ensure that any consignments shipped from 19 February 2026 onwards are inspected by one of the KEBS-appointed companies, in accordance with the contractual requirements.
The bureau also reiterated that all goods destined for the Kenyan market must meet Kenya Standards, approved specifications, and relevant regulatory requirements. Each shipment must be accompanied by a valid Certificate of Conformity (CoC).
KEBS warned that failure to comply could attract penalties under Legal Notice No. 78 of 2002.
However, goods imported for personal use with a customs value not exceeding USD 100 are exempt from PVoC requirements, subject to payment of applicable compliance or non-compliance fees. This exemption does not extend to used motor vehicles, used spare parts, or items such as second-hand clothing.
