How to import a car from Japan to Jamaica
How to import a car from Japan to Jamaica (port Kingston)?
Jamaica enforces strict age limits for used passenger cars: general imports are typically limited to 5 years from manufacture (returning residents sometimes allowed up to 10 years with proof). The country drives on the left so the NV350 (RHD) is acceptable if within the age window and permitted under the Motor Vehicle Import Permit regime. Taxes/customs: import duty, General Consumption Tax (GCT) and other levies are applied; effective landed tax can be high — check Jamaica Customs / Trade Board for exact tariff lines. Practical steps: secure a Motor Vehicle Import Permit (if applicable), provide export documents (Japanese deregistration, invoice, BL), and ensure you meet returning-resident rules if using that scheme. For planning we used Ro-Ro ~ USD 220/m³ ×16 = USD 3,520, insurance = USD 89.70, giving CIF USD 18,029.70. Because Jamaica’s age rules are tight, confirm the van’s manufacturing/model year eligibility (2018 → likely 7 years in 2025 — over the normal 5-year limit, so you’ll likely need to qualify as a returning resident or look at exemptions). Always confirm permits before paying the seller.
Export Statistics from Japan to Jamaica
Between January and June 2025, Japan exported 15,786 used vehicles to Jamaica, placing the country 16th globally in total import volume. This marks a 52% year-over-year decline compared to 2024, driven by stricter age limits, rising inspection costs, and currency fluctuations.
Monthly breakdown (2025):
| Month | Units Imported |
| January | 1,671 |
| February | 1,697 |
| March | 3,600 |
| April | 1,747 |
| May | 3,011 |
| June | 4,060 |
Popular categories:
- Compact sedans and hatchbacks
- SUVs and crossovers
- Light commercial vans
- Hybrid models
Top models include the Toyota Axio, Honda Fit, Toyota Probox, Nissan Note, and Suzuki Swift.
📈 2025 Import Trends for Japanese Vehicles in Jamaica
Jamaica’s vehicle import market is shaped by strict age limits, right-hand drive preferences, and growing interest in fuel-efficient models:
- Age Restrictions:
- Motorcars: ≤6 years old
- Pickups: ≤6 years, ≤1,500 kg unladen weight
- Vans and buses: ≤10 years
- Trucks: Up to 30 years, depending on weight
- Motorcycles: ≤5 years
- Right-hand drive vehicles allowed
- Pre-shipment inspection required for consumer protection
- Port of entry: Kingston
- Transit time: 4–6 weeks via RoRo or container
Taxation (individual importers):
| Tax Type | Rate |
| Import Duty | 20% |
| Special Consumption Tax | 20% |
| General Consumption Tax | 16.5% |
Latest trend (2025):
Buyers are shifting toward compact hybrids and low-maintenance models due to rising fuel costs and stricter inspection fees. The Toyota Axio, Honda Fit Hybrid, and Nissan Note e-Power are especially popular among urban commuters and returning residents.
🧾 Clearing & Forwarding Agents in Jamaica
Reliable agencies supporting Japanese vehicle imports:
| Agency Name | Location | Services |
| Caribbean Auto Terminal | Kingston | Vehicle processing, customs clearance, secure off-port storage[^23^] |
| Master Freight Jamaica Ltd | Kingston | Licensed customs brokerage, trucking, personal and commercial clearance[^17^] |
| Caribbean Logistics Services | Nationwide | Import documentation, classification, customs submission[^24^] |
| Jamaica Customs Brokers Association | Kingston | Network of certified brokers for vehicle import coordination[^22^] |
These agencies assist with import licensing, customs paperwork, port handling, and final delivery across Jamaica.
CIF estimate: USD 18,029.70
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