• Direct Negotiation: Unlike the standard public auction, a private treaty allows direct negotiation with potential buyers in addition to being conducted online. Offers may be accepted subject to specified conditions set by URA.
• Purpose: The primary objectives are to decongest customs warehouses, dispose of long staying goods, and mobilize domestic revenue
• Process: URA advertises the goods available for sale. Interested parties inspect the items and submit bids either manually or through an automated online system. A successful bidder is required to pay 100% of the bid price within a specified timeframe.
• “As Is” Basis: Goods are sold on an “as is” basis, meaning no warranties or after-sale claims are accepted.
• Accessibility: All terms and conditions governing the private treaty are publicly available on the URA portal or at designated customs warehouse locations

Note;

• Participation in a Private Treaty is free of charge for individuals or entities with a valid TIN, unlike some public auctions that require a participation fee.

The Private Treaty mechanism operates within the broader framework of customs administration, which is governed by the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA)