This archive report was first published on 22 June 2021.
On June 23 and 24, 2021, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) will hold its first two-day auction at the Port of Mombasa, featuring 314 vehicles and 223 containers.
The vehicles and containers are being held at the Port over tax-related disputes. According to KRA's Coast Region Coordinator Joseph Tunoi, the auction is historic as it marks the first time the auction will be held for two consecutive days.
"For the first time, we are going to run a customs auction for two consecutive days. It is scheduled for June 23 and 24. This is because of the big number of motor vehicles and containers that are put on auction," Tunoi confirmed.
The auction is expected to generate between Ksh150 million and Ksh200 million in revenue for the KRA. The event will be held in strict adherence to Covid-19 protocols.
The containers, which contain assorted household goods, clothes, and shoes, are being held at the Custom Warehouse at the Port of Mombasa. The vehicles are being detained at various Container Freight Stations (CFS).
"These are majorly containers that have overstayed. We want to clear congestion at the port, encourage efficiency and facilitate trade. We are also in the business of protecting our revenue," Tunoi stated.
"The process will be very transparent. Every Kenyan has an equal chance to bid for whatever they wish to buy," Tunoi added.
The last auction at the Port of Mombasa netted about Ksh53 million.
