EPRA’s New Fuel Order: The Massive Border Shift Taking Effect Sooner Than You Think

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is planning a major digital transformation regarding how fuel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) enter Kenya.

The regulatory body wants to transition from traditional paperwork to a fully automated system for processing petroleum products at all border entry points.

EPRA is working alongside the Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade) to deploy the National Electronic Single Window System (NESWS), which is also referred to as the Trade Facilitation Platform (TFP).

This incoming framework mandates that importers and logistics companies file their clearance documents through an internet-based infrastructure.

Beyond document submission, authorized transporters will use the web portal to file detailed journey plans for their cargo.

EPRA intends to utilize this interconnected network to perform instant validations of operational licenses.

During a stakeholder engagement workshop at Meru National Polytechnic, EPRA Deputy Director of Surveillance Maj (Rtd) Augustine Ouma emphasized the importance of this shift.

Ouma explained that the electronic portal is specifically built to enhance transparency, minimize delays, and boost overall regulatory compliance within the energy sector.

This modernization strategy reflects a larger government campaign to digitize supply chain networks and track freight movements dynamically.

For context, the NESWS infrastructure is already operational in other sectors, such as managing import documentation for the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).

The rollout of this digital system will follow a structured, multi-phase timeline.

Phase One will strictly focus on processing entry requirements for fuel and LPG shipments.

While the underlying platform is designed to eventually manage coal imports, this specific commodity will be excluded from the initial launch phase.

This digitization program complements previous logistical upgrades, such as the electronic cargo tracking systems introduced by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

EPRA draws its regulatory powers from the Energy Act of 2019, which tasks it with overseeing the importation, storage, distribution, and licensing of petroleum products.

To ensure a smooth transition, the regulator is hosting interactive public participation forums across the country to gather critical industry feedback.

The next consultative stakeholder meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at the Hilton Building in Nairobi.

While the sensitization campaign is fully underway, the government has not yet announced the official launch date for the portal.

Rachael-Writes feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com