How to import a car from Japan to Zambia
How to import a car from Japan to Zambia ? — Policy Snapshot
Zambia accepts RHD vehicles and historically has no formal age cap, though vehicles older than ~5 years can attract higher surtaxes under recent tariff schedules (ZRA used-motor vehicle specific duty rates 2025). Clearance requires JEVIC/JEVIC-style inspection certificates depending on customs, payment of import duty (specific duty bands), VAT and registration fees. Documents: Japanese export papers, BL, invoice and inspection certificates. Check ZRA’s published 2025 specific duty schedules for exact tariff figures.
Trend (SUVs): Zambia’s market shows steady appetite for SUVs/minivans from Japan — demand is driven by off-road capability and family use. Importer reports record consistent volumes for 4×4 and crossover SUVs into 2025. Expect competitively priced Outlander-class vehicles to sell well.
Export Statistics from Japan to Zambia
In 2025, Japan exported approximately 11,185 used vehicles to Zambia. Monthly breakdown:
- January: 1,060
- February: 1,654
- March: 1,543
- April: 1,462
- May: 1,283
- June: 1,676
- July: 2,507
- August–December: Pending updates
Zambia ranks 22nd globally in volume of Japanese used car imports.
Common vehicle categories:
- Compact and mid-size passenger cars
- SUVs and crossovers
- Light commercial trucks and pickups
- Buses and utility vehicles
📈 2025 Import Trends for Japanese Vehicles in Zambia
Zambia’s demand for Japanese vehicles remains strong and stable, driven by:
- No age restriction on imported vehicles
- Right-hand drive compatibility
- Mandatory JEVIC inspection for roadworthiness
- Import VAT at 16% on customs value + duties
- Carbon emission surtax based on engine capacity:
- Up to 1500cc: ZMW 50,000
- 1501–2000cc: ZMW 100,000
- 2001–3000cc: ZMW 150,000
- 3001cc and above: ZMW 200,000
Latest trend (2025):
Japanese hybrid and electric vehicles are gaining popularity in Zambia’s urban centers, especially among younger buyers and fleet operators. Models like the Toyota Aqua, Nissan Note e-Power, and Honda Fit Hybrid are seeing increased registrations due to fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs.
Shipping ports used: Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) and Durban (South Africa), with inland delivery to Lusaka, Ndola, and Kitwe.
🧾 Clearing & Forwarding Agents in Zambia
Reliable agencies supporting Japanese vehicle imports:
| Agency Name | Location | Services |
| Swift Clearing & Logistics Ltd | Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe | Customs clearance, bonded warehousing, freight forwarding |
| Fastline Clearing & Forwarding Ltd | Lusaka | ZRA-accredited, vehicle logistics and documentation |
| Manica Zambia Ltd | Multiple cities | Clearing, forwarding, inland transport |
| Customized Clearing & Forwarding Ltd | Livingstone, Kitwe | Import coordination, customs support |
These agencies assist with customs paperwork, port handling, and final delivery across Zambia.
CIF estimate: USD 10,009.80 (Freight: USD 1,540 @ USD110/m³; Insurance: USD 49.80)
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