Customs security bonds.
Understand the EAC Bond.

A bond secures an obligation

A customs security bond creates an undertaking tied to specified conditions. The principal must meet those conditions, and the surety or guarantor has obligations if they are not met. Insurance companies or banks may act as sureties under the relevant arrangement.

Keep the procedure and guarantee specific

Confirm why security is required, the amount, the relevant customs procedure, validity and authorised parties. A guarantee for one purpose should not be assumed to cover another. Requirements for transit, temporary procedures or a disputed payment must be assessed separately.

The EAC Customs Bond

KRA announced the rollout of the EAC Customs Bond effective 23 March 2026, following its regional launch. Confirm the current operational requirements, applicable route and system arrangements before relying on a regional bond. Its rollout does not itself demonstrate that every other national or regional guarantee can be used interchangeably.

Accounting, reinstatement and suspension

KRA explains that successful accounting of covered transactions can support bond reinstatement, while failure to account can lead to suspension. Track the movement and retain the documents needed to close the customs obligation.

• Identify the principal, surety and bond reference.
• Confirm the route, covered procedure and any validity conditions.
• Retain movement, arrival, exit or other required accounting evidence.
• Monitor outstanding transactions and follow up on closure.

Review requirements before confirming a service

This guide explains bond planning and document preparation. For any bonded or transit movement enquiry, establish the current accepted service scope, approved participants and security arrangement before booking. Do not treat an enquiry as confirmation of bond issuance or transit processing.