Kenya’s demand for Japanese cars continues to grow due to their affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Importing a car from Japan to Kenya directly saves you 20-40% compared to buying locally, with access to low-mileage, well-maintained vehicles.
Key Benefits:
✔ Lower prices – Avoid dealer markups.
✔ Wider selection – Choose from models not available in Kenya.
✔ Better condition – Japanese cars often have full service histories.
✔ Fuel efficiency – Ideal for Kenya’s high fuel costs.
Step-by-Step Process to Import a Car from Japan to Kenya
1. Choose the Right Car
- Age limit: Must be under 8 years from the first registration date.
- Right-hand drive (RHD): Left-hand drive cars are not allowed unless for special use (e.g., ambulances).
- Engine size: Smaller engines (below 2000cc) attract lower taxes.
- Popular models: Toyota Premio, Honda Fit, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester.
2. Find a Reputable Japanese Exporter
Trusted platforms include:
- BE FORWARD (beforward.jp)
- SBT Japan (sbtjapan.com)
- Autocom Japan (autocj.co.jp).
Red flags to avoid:
❌ No export license
❌ Poor customer reviews
❌ No pre-shipment inspection
3. Arrange Shipping to Mombasa Port
Two main shipping methods:
- Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off): Cheaper (~$1,000–$1,200) but less secure.
- Container shipping: More expensive (~$1,500) but safer.
Transit time: 4–8 weeks.
4. Clear Customs in Mombasa
Required documents:
✅ Bill of Lading
✅ Export Certificate (from Japan)
✅ Pre-shipment Inspection Report (KEBS-approved)
✅ KRA Import Declaration Form (IDF).
Hire a clearing agent (~KSh 20,000–50,000) to handle taxes and paperwork.
5. Pay Import Taxes & Duties
Taxes are calculated based on CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight):
| Tax Type | Rate | Calculation Base |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | 25% | CIF Value |
| Excise Duty | 20–35% | CIF + Import Duty |
| VAT | 16% | CIF + Duty + Excise |
| IDF Fee | 3.5% | CIF Value |
| Railway Levy (RDL) | 2% | CIF Value |
Example: For a car with a CIF value of KSh 1,000,000, expect ~KSh 600,000–800,000 in taxes.
6. Register with NTSA
- Apply via TIMS portal (tims.ntsa.go.ke).
- Pay registration fees (KSh 10,000–20,000).
- Get number plates & logbook.
7. Insure & Drive Your Car
- Third-party insurance (mandatory) – Covers damages to others.
- Comprehensive insurance (recommended) – Covers theft & accidents.
Total Cost Breakdown (2025 Estimates)
| Cost Item | Estimated Price (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Car Purchase Price | 600,000 – 2,500,000 |
| Shipping (Ro-Ro) | 150,000 – 180,000 |
| Import Taxes & Duties | 45–65% of CIF value |
| Clearing Agent Fees | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| NTSA Registration | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 1.2M – 4M+ |
Pro Tips for First-Time Importers
✔ Check depreciation rates – Older cars pay less duty.
✔ Avoid “bad months” – Ship after the car’s registration month to avoid extra taxes.
✔ Use KRA’s duty calculator – Estimate taxes before buying.
✔ Hybrid cars save long-term – Lower excise duty (25%) vs. petrol (35%).
Final Thoughts
Importing a car from Japan to Kenya is cost-effective but complex. Following this guide ensures a smooth process. Need help? Work with licensed agents like CarsKenya or Autocom Japan for hassle-free imports.
Got questions? Drop them in the comments!
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