The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a public notice urging all importers of refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) gases to apply for their 2025 annual import licenses.

This reminder comes as 2025 marks Kenya’s final year to import hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) under the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty aimed at protecting the ozone layer by phasing out ozone-depleting substances.

HCFCs, widely used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, significantly deplete the ozone layer and are potent greenhouse gases. To mitigate their environmental impact, the Montreal Protocol mandates a phased reduction and ultimate elimination of HCFCs.

While developed nations phased out HCFCs by 2020, developing countries, including Kenya, are on a stepwise reduction plan targeting complete phase-out by 2030. Importers are reminded that the final date for HCFC importation is January 1, 2026.

“Applications for 2025 import licenses must be submitted online through the Kenya Electronic Single Window System by February 28, 2025,” NEMA stated.

Importing HCFCs without a valid license after this deadline will constitute an offense under the Environmental Management and Co-ordination (Controlled Substances) Regulations, 2007.

This initiative supports Kenya’s environmental policies and commitment to global agreements aimed at protecting the ozone layer and combating climate change.

Stakeholders in the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors are encouraged to adhere to these regulations and explore sustainable alternatives to HCFCs, ensuring a smooth transition ahead of the 2026 phase-out deadline.