Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced a deadline of June 30, 2025, for all fuel stations to fully implement the Electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS). This move aims to enhance tax compliance, streamline invoicing processes, and promote digital transformation in the petroleum industry.
What is eTIMS?
Launched in 2023, eTIMS is a software-based platform designed by KRA to digitize and automate tax invoicing for VAT-registered businesses. Since 2021, KRA has required businesses to issue electronic tax invoices, and eTIMS expands this initiative with a focus on real-time, electronic documentation for all sales. For the petroleum sector, KRA introduced the eTIMS Fuel Station System, tailored to high-volume fuel dispensing operations.
Why Do Fuel Stations Need eTIMS?
Traditional Electronic Tax Registers (ETRs) often face operational inefficiencies, causing delays and compliance challenges for fuel stations. The eTIMS Fuel Station System addresses these issues by enabling seamless, real-time invoicing that integrates with station systems such as forecourt controllers, fuel management systems, point of sale (POS), and printers. This integration improves operational efficiency and ensures compliance with KRA regulations.
Benefits of Adopting eTIMS for Fuel Stations
- Faster Service Delivery: Reduce customer wait times with streamlined invoicing processes.
- Higher Accuracy: Minimize manual errors through real-time, automated invoicing.
- Enhanced Functionality: Features like PIN capture simplify transactions.
- Simplified Tax Compliance: Automated invoicing ensures adherence to KRA regulations, reducing penalties.
How to Integrate with eTIMS
KRA has collaborated with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), fuel retailers, and industry associations to pilot and optimize the eTIMS platform. There are two options for integration:
- Self-Integration: Suitable for fuel stations with the technical capacity to connect their systems independently.
- Third-Party Integration: Stations can engage certified third-party integrators approved by KRA (five as of April 2025). A full list of certified partners is available on the KRA website.
The Road Ahead: Deadline to Comply
With the June 30, 2025, deadline approaching, fuel stations are urged to act swiftly. Whether choosing self-integration or working with certified third-party providers, implementing eTIMS will ensure compliance, reduce operational disruptions, and unlock operational efficiencies.
Adopting eTIMS is not only a regulatory requirement but also an opportunity to modernize business operations and improve customer service.
For more details on integration guidelines and certified vendors, visit the KRA official website.
