The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has officially released its revised Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) list for imported used vehicles, marking the first comprehensive update in over six years. This major change, effective from July 1, 2025, is set to impact the way taxes are calculated on used vehicle imports, reshaping Kenya’s automotive landscape.

Why the 2025 CRSP Update Matters

For the average Kenyan car buyer or dealer, understanding the CRSP is critical. It’s a pricing guide used by KRA to estimate the value of imported used vehicles, forming the basis for taxation, including Import Duty, Excise Duty, VAT, Railway Development Levy (RDL), and Import Declaration Fee (IDF).

The last time this list was updated was in 2019. Since then, the Kenyan economy has experienced major shifts, including currency depreciation, higher global car prices, and increased duty rates. The updated CRSP aims to account for these changes.

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What's New in the 2025 CRSP List?

According to KRA, several major improvements are being introduced in the new list:

1. Expanded Model Coverage

The 2025 CRSP features over 5,200 unique vehicle models, a significant jump from the 3,000 models listed in 2019. This expansion includes newer models such as the Toyota Yaris Cross, Nissan Note e-Power, and Mazda CX-30—many of which are now available on Kenyan roads.

2. More Accurate Vehicle Specs

Previously, valuations mainly considered engine size and drivetrain. Now, the updated CRSP includes trim levels, performance specs, and additional features. This gives importers and buyers a fairer and more transparent tax estimate.

3. Stakeholder-Driven Reforms

KRA worked closely with industry groups like the Kenya Auto Bazaar Association and Car Importers Association of Kenya to develop a CRSP that reflects real-world pricing. Feedback was also incorporated from clearing agents and other logistics experts.

4. Updated Market Realities

The new CRSP takes into account the Kenyan shilling’s depreciation—from about KSh 100/USD in 2019 to roughly KSh 130/USD in 2025. Higher exchange rates mean a higher customs value, directly influencing the taxes payable.

Tip: To find second-hand cars suited to your budget in this changing tax climate, explore listings on Auto24 Kenya. You’ll find popular models like the Mazda Demio, Toyota Fielder, and Honda Fit, all commonly affected by the CRSP update.

The Legal Backbone Behind CRSP

The CRSP list isn’t just a local policy—it's rooted in international and regional standards. KRA applies the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) customs valuation principles, embedded in Kenyan law through the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA), 2004. This ensures alignment with best practices across the region.

Gaps and Challenges in the CRSP List

Despite the major strides made, KRA acknowledged some gaps in the 2025 list:

  • Limited Data on Some New Models: Vehicles that are new to the market or sold in limited quantities may not yet have detailed pricing data. KRA relies heavily on Japanese Yearbooks and valuation databases like Goo-net, which may lag behind current trends.

  • Technical Adjustments Ongoing: KRA says the CRSP will continue to be refined with the help of data providers and industry specialists. This is good news for dealers and buyers hoping for fairer, more up-to-date assessments.

Why This Update Was Long Overdue

KRA previously attempted to revise the CRSP in 2020, but legal disputes halted the effort. However, with import dynamics changing rapidly—driven by global inflation, rising shipping costs, and increased excise duty—the 2025 update was inevitable.

Examples of how the revised taxes may affect car costs:

  • BMW X5 (2018): Previously taxed at approx. KSh 2.5M; now could be closer to KSh 3.6M

  • Toyota Probox (2018): Expected tax increase of KSh 150K – KSh 250K

  • Nissan Note e-Power (2018): Likely to see a significant increase in excise duty

The Bottom Line: What Should Kenyan Car Buyers Expect?

If you’re looking to import a car in 2025, expect:

  • Higher costs due to increased valuation and tax rates

  • More scrutiny in vehicle documentation and features

  • Greater transparency, reducing loopholes and under-declarations

That said, this could drive more interest in locally used cars, which are not subject to CRSP-based taxation and may offer better deals for budget-conscious buyers.

Want to learn how to save money while shopping for your next car? Read our guide on "Would buying a local used car save me more money despite rising prices?"

Final Thoughts

The updated CRSP list marks a pivotal moment for Kenya’s used car market. It promises fairer taxation, enhanced transparency, and better alignment with modern vehicle specs. But it also signals rising costs—making it more important than ever for Kenyan drivers to be informed and strategic.

For many, buying locally used cars or choosing budget-friendly models like the Toyota Vitz, Mazda Axela, or Honda Fit may be the smarter choice in 2025.