How to Import Cattle Feed into Kenya: Licences, Permits, and Compliance Guide (2026)
Kenya has one of the largest livestock sectors in East Africa, with dairy farming playing a major role in the country’s agricultural economy. As livestock production grows, demand for high-quality cattle feed continues to rise.
While Kenya produces some feed locally, many businesses import specialised cattle feed, protein supplements, and feed additives to meet demand.
However, importing animal feed into Kenya requires compliance with regulatory authorities and quality standards. This guide explains the step-by-step process, licences required, and regulatory fees involved in importing cattle feed into Kenya.
Regulatory Authorities for Cattle Feed Imports in Kenya
Importing cattle feed involves oversight from several government institutions to ensure safety, quality, and compliance.
Veterinary Regulation
Directorate of Veterinary Services regulates animal feed imports. The authority operates under the Fertilisers and Animal Foodstuffs Act
Importers must obtain an animal feed import permit before bringing feed products into the country.
This permit ensures:
- Feed ingredients are safe for animal consumption
- The feed does not contain harmful substances
- Imported products meet livestock nutrition standards.
Quality and Standards Compliance
All imported goods must comply with the standards set by the
Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
KEBS ensures imported feed products meet Kenyan safety and quality standards through:
- Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC)
- Import Standardisation Mark (ISM)
These programs confirm that imported goods meet Kenyan standards.
Agricultural and Plant Health Control
Where cattle feed contains plant-based ingredients such as maize or soybean meal, clearance may also involve the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS).
KEPHIS prevents the introduction of pests, diseases, and contaminated agricultural products into Kenya.
Step-by-Step Process for Importing Cattle Feed into Kenya
1. Register Your Import Company
Before importing animal feed, you must first establish a legally registered business.
Typical requirements include:
- Company registration in Kenya
- KRA PIN certificate from the Kenya Revenue Authority
- Business bank account
- County Single Business Permit
2. Apply for an Animal Feed Import Permit
Importers must obtain an Animal Feed Import Permit from the Directorate of Veterinary Services.
Documents usually required include:
- Product composition and formulation
- Manufacturer information
- Veterinary health certificate
- Importer business details.
3. Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC)
Before shipment, the product must be inspected in the country of origin under the KEBS PVoC program.
Inspection agencies verify:
- Product safety and quality
- Packaging and labelling
- Quantity and specifications.
4. Import Clearance in Kenya
Upon arrival in Kenya:
- Import documents are processed through customs
- KEBS verifies the Certificate of Conformity
- Authorities may conduct random inspections.
Goods without a CoC may face destination inspection fees and delays.
5. Apply for Import Standardisation Mark (ISM)
If the cattle feed is to be sold in Kenya, the importer must obtain the Import Standardisation Mark (ISM) from KEBS.
The ISM confirms the product complies with Kenyan standards and is approved for sale in the market.
6. Manufacturer / Dealer Licence for Animal Feed in Kenya
In addition to the Animal Feed Import Permit, businesses that intend to store, distribute, or sell cattle feed in Kenya may also need a Manufacturer or Dealer Licence.
This licence is issued by the Directorate of Veterinary Services under the Fertilisers and Animal Foodstuffs Act.
The licence regulates businesses that handle animal feeds within the country to ensure proper safety and handling standards.
When the Licence Is Required
You may need a feed manufacturer or dealer licence if your business will:
- Store cattle feed in a warehouse or premises
- Distribute feed to farmers, agrovet shops, or dairy farms
- Repackage or handle imported feed products
- Sell livestock feed within Kenya.
Even if the feed is imported, regulators may require that the premises handling the feed be licensed to ensure compliance with storage and safety standards.
When It May Not Be Required
In some cases, the licence may not be necessary if:
- The importer sells the feed directly to another licensed distributor, or
- The importer does not store or handle the feed locally.
However, most businesses importing cattle feed for commercial sale will require both the import permit and the dealer licence.
Purpose of the Licence
The manufacturer or dealer licence ensures that:
- Feed products are stored under appropriate conditions
- The premises meet hygiene and safety requirements
- The feed remains safe for animal consumption.
Estimated Statutory Costs for Importing Cattle Feed into Kenya
Regulatory fees vary depending on the product and consignment size.
Typical costs include:
| Requirement | Estimated Cost |
| Animal feed import permit | ~KES 3,000 per consignment |
| KEBS PVoC inspection | 0.6% of FOB value |
| PVoC minimum fee | USD 300 |
| PVoC maximum fee | USD 3,500 |
| ISM product registration | ~KES 7,500 per product |
| County business permit | KES 5,000 – 50,000 |
Additional costs may apply for laboratory testing and compliance verification.
Labelling Requirements for Animal Feed
Imported cattle feed must comply with labelling regulations.
Packaging should include:
- Product name
- Ingredient composition
- Nutritional analysis
- Manufacturer details
- Country of origin
- Batch number
- Manufacturing and expiry dates
- Storage instructions.
- Proper labelling ensures traceability and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a license to import cattle feed into Kenya?
Yes. Importers must obtain an animal feed import permit from the Directorate of Veterinary Services and comply with KEBS standards.
Is KEBS certification required for imported animal feed?
Yes. Imported feed products must comply with KEBS requirements through the PVoC program and ISM certification.
How long does the cattle feed import approval process take?
The approval process typically takes a few days to several weeks, depending on documentation and regulatory review.
Can imported cattle feed be sold without ISM certification?
No. Imported regulated goods must obtain an Import Standardisation Mark (ISM) before being sold in Kenya.
Conclusion
Importing cattle feed into Kenya is a promising business opportunity given the country’s growing livestock industry. However, compliance with veterinary regulations, quality standards, and import inspection requirements is essential.
Businesses that follow the correct regulatory process can successfully supply high-quality livestock feed to Kenya’s dairy and livestock farmers.
Need Help Importing Animal Feed into Kenya?
If you are planning to import cattle feed into Kenya, professional guidance can help simplify the process—from company registration to veterinary permits and KEBS approvals.
Working with experienced consultants ensures your business meets all regulatory requirements and avoids costly delays.
📩 clientservice@afrilinkconsultants.com
📞 +254707280366
