KENYA - EIGHTGOLD CO., LTD. New & Used Japanese Car Dealer

Japan Used Car Import Guide – Kenya

Here are the key regulations you need to follow when exporting used vehicles to Kenya:

Vehicle Age Limit

Used vehicles must be 8 years old or less from the year of manufacture at the time of importation.
Vehicles older than 8 years are not allowed to be imported into Kenya.

Pre-Export Inspection

All used vehicles must undergo a pre-shipment inspection to ensure roadworthiness, safety, and environmental compliance.
QISJ are commonly used inspection agencies for vehicles exported from Japan.
A Certificate of Roadworthiness is required before the vehicle is shipped.

Right-Hand Drive Only

Kenya drives on the left side of the road.
Only right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are allowed to be imported.
Left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles are generally prohibited, except under very limited exceptions (e.g., special purpose vehicles).

Import Duties and Taxes

Imported vehicles are subject to several taxes, including:

• Import Duty (typically 25% of the customs value)
• Excise Duty (varies depending on engine capacity and age)
• VAT (Value Added Tax): 16%
• Import Declaration Fee (IDF): 2.25% of the CIF value

Emission and Safety Standards

Vehicles must comply with Kenya’s environmental and safety standards, including acceptable emission levels. Non-compliant vehicles will be rejected at the port of entry.

Railway Development Levy (RDL):

• 1.5% of the CIF value
• CIF = Cost + Insurance + Freight

Required Documents

The following documents are usually required for customs clearance:

• Original Bill of Lading
• Commercial Invoice
• Pre-shipment Inspection Certificate (e.g., JEVIC)
• Export Certificate (from the exporting country)
• KRA PIN (Kenya Revenue Authority Personal Identification Number)

Registration in Kenya

After customs clearance, the vehicle must be registered with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and assigned a Kenyan number plate.