If you’re wondering: Is importing cars from China to Kenya legal? Can I purchase cars directly from China to Kenya? What are the import duties for Chinese cars? How much does it cost to import a car from China to Kenya? What is Kenya’s vehicle import policy? These are common questions for Kenyan citizens planning or considering importing Chinese cars.To address these, Jinyucars provides detailed answers to help you import Chinese cars to Kenya more easily and affordably.

Is Importing Cars from China Legal? Can I Buy Directly?

Yes, it is legal. Even individuals can purchase cars directly from China. However, Kenyan laws and regulations impose specific requirements for vehicle imports. Ensure compliance with these rules before proceeding. We recommend thoroughly understanding Kenya’s specific import regulations beforehand.

Key Regulations for Importing Vehicles to Kenya

To legally import your car,the vehicle must comply with the Kenya Bureau of Standards requirements of Legal Notice No. 78 of 15th July 2005 (Verification of Conformity to Kenya Standards Imports Order, 2005) and KS1515:2000 Kenya Standard Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles. In Particular, The Imported Car:

• Must be less than 8 years old form the year of first registration.
• Will be subject to roadworthiness inspection by a KEBS appointed inspection agent in the country of export.
• Should be Right Hand drive
• The NEW motor vehicle valuation template is available for your use during the importation process.

Taxes Applicable in Motor Vehicle Importation

The following taxes/duties are payable for motor vehicle imports based on customs value.

Import Duty (25%)

Ambulances and hearses (0%)

Excise Duty

Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons

• Other vehicles, with spark-ignition internal combustion reciprocating piston engine, of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,000 cc but not exceeding 1,500 cc, assembled.(20%)
• Other vehicles, with spark-ignition internal combustion reciprocating piston engine, of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,500 cc but not exceeding 3,000 cc, assembled.(25%)
• Other vehicles, with spark-ignition internal combustion reciprocating piston engine, of a cylinder capacity exceeding 3,000 cc, assembled. (35%)
• Other vehicles, with compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel), of a cylinder capacity not exceeding 1,500 cc, assembled. (25%)
• Other vehicles, with compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel), of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,500 cc but not exceeding 2,500 cc, assembled (25%)
• Other vehicles, with compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel), of a cylinder capacity exceeding 2,500 cc, assembled. (35%)
• Other vehicles, with both spark-ignition internal combustion reciprocating piston engine and electric motor as motors for propulsion, other than those capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power(25%)
• Other vehicles, with both compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and electric motor as motors for propulsion, other than those capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power (25%)
• Other vehicles, with both spark-ignition internal combustion reciprocating piston engine and electric motor as motors for propulsion, capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power (25%)
• Other vehicles, with both compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and electric motor as motors for propulsion, capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power (25%)
• Other vehicles, with only electric motor for propulsion (10%)

Value Added Tax (16%)

Import Declaration Fees (3.5%)

Railway Development Levy (2%)

Example

Toyota Auris with an engine of 1800 cc that was manufactured in January 2017

The Cost Insurance and Freight (CIF) can be determined from the current retail selling price (CRSP) of the vehicle. CRSP can be determined using the current retail selling price matrix and the valuation template available on the KRA website。

What documents are needed to import Chinese cars to Kenya?

Importation Supporting documents for Importing cars from China to Kenya should be attached including but not limited to:

• Commercial Invoice – Original
• Original Logbook from the country of importation that has been cancelled from the country of origin, as this will be required by National Transport and Safety Authority to give you an original Kenyan Log Book
• Original Bill of lading
• Pre-shipment inspection certificate. (certificate of road worthiness)
• Copy of your PIN certificate/ Copy of certificate of Incorporation (applicable to companies)

It is important to note that KRA does not accept a Certificate of Export issued by Dubai Police or any other authority as a substitute for a foreign Logbook. If the Logbook is in a foreign language, an English translation issued by the respective Embassy, High Commission or a Consulate based here in Kenya must be presented to Customs to authenticate the foreign logbook.

If you purchase a vehicle that was previously exempt, you are required to contact a licensed clearing agent to lodge an entry with Customs. The vehicle must be presented for inspection by Customs before the entry document is accepted. If found to conform to the required standards, the processing officer will accept payment and pass the entry upon full payment of the relevant duties and taxes.

How to get a license plate for importing a car from China to Kenya?

Chinese cars imported to Kenya are required to meet the following Licensing requires in order to obtain a licence plate:

• original logbook
• KRA tax number
• proof of import clearance
• registration of new license plate with the National Transport Safety Authority (NTSA) (cost around Kshs 3,000-7,500)

Which is the best transportation company to import cars from China to Kenya?

Based on export records and industry reliability, the following companies are widely used for shipping cars from China to Kenya:

1. China ocean shipping company (COSCO)
2. EMC(evergreen marine corporation)
3. Hapag Lloyd
4. CMA
5. MSC

Conclusion

Importing cars from China to Kenya is a smart move for individuals and businesses looking to access affordable, high-quality vehicles. With competitive pricing, a wide range of models, and a streamlined export process, Chinese cars are becoming increasingly popular across Kenya.

Whether you’re a first-time importer or a local dealer, partnering with a trusted exporter – Jinyucars ensures a smooth, secure, and profitable experience.

🚗 Ready to start importing Chinese vehicles to Kenya?

Contact our team at jinyucars.com/contact-us to get a custom quote, view our available inventory, and receive expert shipping support today.