Steps for NEMA Plastics License Application: The Complete Guide

The Plastic Packaging Materials Regulations, 2024 governs the use of plastic carrier bags, flat bags, plastic films, and plastic packaging for imported goods. It is crucial for businesses to understand who these regulations apply to and how to remain compliant.

Who Does This Apply To?

These regulations are binding for the following entities:

• Packaging Users / Brand Owners: For products packaged in flexible plastic packaging.
• Packaging Manufacturers: Those producing plastic packaging for sale to other businesses.
• Exporters: Businesses dealing in plastic-packaged goods for export.
• Importers: Those bringing in plastic packaging, either directly or through agents.

Key Regulation Requirements

To ensure compliance, affected entities must adhere to the following operational mandates:

• Pre-Approval: You must apply for approval before producing or importing packaging.
• Annual Returns: Submission of data on quantities manufactured, imported, or exported is mandatory.
• Phase-out: There is a mandatory phase-out of non-recyclable plastics.
• Labeling & Traceability: All packaging must carry the Resin Identification Code.

Mandatory Resin Identification Codes

Learn more about Plastics Resin Codes: View Technical Details →

10 Steps to Apply for a Licence

Follow this step-by-step process via the NEMA Licensing Portal:

1. Go to the NEMA Licensing Portal accessible via licensing.nema.go.ke.
2. Click on Register and Create an account using your KRA ITAX Email Address & KRA Pin.
3. Click on Log in and enter your credentials (KRA Pin & Password).
4. Under NEMA Services, select New License Application.
5. Under the Apply for License dropdown, select License for Plastic Packaging Material.
6. Prepare your attachments (detailed in the section below).
7. Fill in and complete the required Details of the Applicant.
8. Complete the category of exemption being sought (Import, Use, or Manufacture).
9. Payments & Submission: Confirm your details, then proceed to make payment as per the Third Schedule of the regulations.
10. Select your preferred payment mode (multiple options available) and complete the transaction.

Attachments Required for Upload

• Registration Documents: Certificate of incorporation (for companies).
• Standards Compliance: A copy of the KEBS certificate (for products to be packaged in plastic bags) or PVOC for imported goods.
• EPR Plan / Membership: A description of your take-back mechanism.
  Tip: A Valid KEPRO Membership Certificate serves in place of an individual EPR plan, as KEPRO has already submitted an EPR Plan on your behalf. Not a member? Join KEPRO here.
• Due Diligence Report: Not mandatory for new applications (required during renewal). From 2026, KEPRO will provide members with records of MVDs and packaging management.
• Artwork/Sample: A well-labelled sample of the plastic bag or artwork on A4 paper.

Important Note on Labeling

Your artwork or bag sample must be permanently and legibly printed with specific information.

General Requirements:

• Product Name
• Name and contacts of the product packer/manufacturer
• Name and contacts of the manufacturer of the plastic packaging

For Importers:

• Product name
• Product manufacturer
• Country of origin
• The Kenyan importer