Compilation of Foreign Motor Vehicle Import Requirements

Compilation of Foreign Motor Vehicle Import Requirements
United States Department of Commerce

International Trade Administration
Office of Transportation and Machinery
December 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents 2-4
Introduction 5
Countries that drive on the left side of the road 6

Top Markets of U.S. Exports of Vehicles 7
North American Countries Surveyed 8-15

Canada 8
Mexico 10
South/Central America & Caribbean Countries Surveyed 16-41

Argentina 16
Bolivia 17
Brazil 18
Chile 19
Colombia 21
Costa Rica 23
Dominican Republic 25
Ecuador 27
El Salvador 28
Guatemala 30
Honduras 30
Jamaica 32
Nicaragua 32
Panama 34
Paraguay 35
Peru 36
Uruguay 38
Venezuela 39
Middle East Countries Surveyed 42-47

Iran 42
Israel 42
Jordan 43
Kuwait 44
Saudi Arabia 45
United Arab Emirates 45
Asia, ASEAN and Oceania Countries Surveyed 48-78

East Asia 48-55
China 48
Japan 51
Korea 52
South/Southwest Asia 55-60

India 55
Nepal 58
Pakistan 58
ASEAN 60-72
Indonesia 60
Malaysia 62
Philippines 65
Singapore 67
Thailand 71
Vietnam 72
Oceania 73-78
Australia 73
New Zealand 76
African Countries Surveyed 78-81

Egypt 78
Nigeria 79
South Africa 80
European, Asia Minor and CIS Countries Surveyed 82-103

European Union 82
Austria 83
Belgium and Luxembourg 83
Bulgaria 84
Croatia 85
Cyprus 86
Czech Republic 86
Denmark 87
Finland 87
France 90
Germany 89
Greece 90
Hungary 91
Ireland 92
Italy 93
Latvia 94
Lithuania 94
Malta 95
Netherlands 95
Poland 96
Portugal 97
Romania 98
Slovenia 98
Spain 99
Sweden 100
United Kingdom 101
European Free Trade Association
Norway 103
Central and Eastern Europe/ Asia Minor

Albania 104
Serbia 104
Turkey 105
Commonwealth of Independent States

Russia 107
Introduction
The Compilation of Foreign Motor Vehicle Import Requirements is designed to provide

motor vehicle exporters with market data and worldwide automotive import restrictions for
the major automotive markets around the world.
The U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Transportation and Machinery, Automotive

Industries Team, collects, compiles, and disseminates the information available in this
document. However, it should be noted that the assistance of Commerce’s country
specialists (Global Market) and overseas representatives (USFCS) played an important role
in making this document possible.
This document is updated periodically and every attempt is made to ensure its accuracy.
Due to the numerous amounts of information sources and changes in countries’ import
requirements, the Office of Transportation and Machinery cannot guarantee the accuracy of
all the material contained in this document.
This document is also available on the Office of Transportation and Machinery’s

homepage: http://trade.gov/td/otm/auto.asp.
COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD THAT DRIVE ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE
ROAD
Anguilla Mauritius
Antigua Montserrat
Australia Mozambique
Bahamas Namibia
Bangladesh Naunu
Barbados Nepal
Bhutan New Zealand
Botswana Norfolk Islands
British Virgin Islands Pakistan
Brunei Papua New Guinea
Cayman Islands Pitcairn Island
Channel Islands St. Helena
Christmas Island St. Kitts and Nevis
Cooke Islands St. Lucia
Cocos Island St. Vincent
Cyprus Seychelles
Dominica Singapore
Falkland Islands Solomon Islands
Fiji Somalia
Granada South Africa
Guyana Sri Lanka
Hong Kong Surinam
India Swaziland
Indonesia Tanzania
Ireland Thailand
Isle of Man Tonga
Jamaica Trinidad and Tobago
Japan Turks and Caicos Islands
Kenya Uganda
Kiribati United Kingdom
Lesotho Virgin Islands (U.S.)
Macao Zambia
Malawi Zimbabwe
Malaysia
Malta
Top Markets for U.S. Exports of New Cars
And All Light Trucks
2012 2013 2014

Canada 743,478 791,532 870,025
China 153,570 233,693 307,425
Mexico 159,415 153,738 151,902
Germany 168,522 135,048 147,680
Saudi Arabia 145,328 139,038 104,074
United Arab
61,443 69,381 63,901
Emirates
Australia 30,915 44,857 61,052
Russia 21,935 48,298 60,766
United Kingdom 35,895 36,343 42,194
Korea 20,086 25,192 32,213
Top Markets for U.S. Exports of Used Cars
2012 2013 2014

Mexico 62,434 106,136 102,157
United Arab
90,567 80,740 82,584
Emirates
Nigeria 92,019 102,022 74,890
Benin 63,462 53,934 54,192
Cambodia 19,143 17,695 23,990
Jordan 26,369 34,571 23,766
Dominican
17,871 17,984 19,738
Republic
Georgia 10,423 16,971 18,855
Saudi Arabia 43,103 26,640 18,651
China 121,138 14,920 18,007
NORTH AMERICAN COUNTRIES SURVEYED:
NAFTA
Motor vehicle trade between the United States, Canada, and Mexico are bound by the terms
of the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which may be found at:
https://www.nafta-sec-alena.org/Home/Legal-Texts/North-American-Free-Trade-
Agreement . Specific coverage of the automotive sector is contained in Annex 300A of
Chapter 3 of the Agreement. The text is available at:
http://www.sice.oas.org/trade/nafta/anx300a1.asp. An exporter’s guide may be accessed by
clicking on the “NAFTA” tab of the U.S. Commerce Department’s Trade Information
Center web site at: http://www.trade.gov/td/tic/.
CANADA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Personal Use Vehicles 20,450,000 20,652,000 21,261,660
Commercial Use Vehicles 970,000 1,053,000 1,072,134
Source: Ward’s Motor Vehicle Data
The Canadian Border Services Agency also maintains a web page with pertinent
information for motor vehicle importers. Many of the details from that web page are found
below. This page can be found at: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5048-
eng.html
Regulations governing automotive trade between the United States and Canada were first
liberalized by the Canada-U.S. Automotive Trade Products Act of 1965, and further relaxed
by the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement of 1989, before being subsumed into the
NAFTA in 1994.
Duties:
There are no customs duties on Canadian imports from the United States of motor vehicles
or of automotive parts that meet the NAFTA rule of origin (in essence, 62.5 percent of the
value of the vehicle must originate within NAFTA). Vehicles and components that do not
comply with the rule of origin are subject to a 6.1 percent duty.
Taxes:
All Canadian imports are also subject to sales taxes applicable at the moment of clearing
customs, “goods and services tax” (GST) or “harmonized sales tax” (HST) depending on
the province. They are calculated on the sum of the Customs-valued import and applicable
duty.
The current applicable taxes are:

Province NL NS PE NB QC ON MB SK AB BC
GST n/a n/a n/a n/a 5% n/a 5% 5% 5% 5%
rate
HST 13%** 15% 14% 13% n/a 13% n/a n/a n/a n/a
rate
**Rate as of October 2015. Scheduled to increase to 15% in January 2016
Air conditioners designed for use in vehicles are subject to an excise tax of CD $100. The
excise tax on fuel-inefficient vehicles ranges from CD $1,000 to CD $4,000, which applies
to passenger vehicles calculated based on the weighted average of fuel consumption rating.
The heavy vehicle weight tax is repealed as of March 20, 2007. Further information on
excise taxes on automobiles can be found at http://www.cra-
arc.gc.ca/E/pub/et/etsl64/etsl64-e.html
Safety and Emissions Compliance:

Vehicles 15 years old or more based on the date of manufacture, or buses manufactured
before January 1, 1971 are no longer regulated under Canada Motor Vehicle Safety
Standards (CMVSS) by virtue of their age and exempt from the Registrar of Imported
Vehicles (RIV) registration. While Transport Canada does not regulate the importation of
such vehicles, they must still meet provincial/territorial safety and licensing requirements.
Vehicles less than 15 years old, or buses manufactured on or after January 1, 1971 may be
imported provided that they are modified to comply with CMVSS
(http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/acts-regulations/regulations-crc-c1038.htm) and must be entered
into RIV program upon crossing the border. These vehicles must also comply with the
provincial/territorial safety and licensing requirements.
A list of vehicles admissible can be found at

http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/safevehicles-importation-usa-index-445.htm.
Admissible vehicles (excluding competition vehicles, snowmobile cutters, and all terrain
vehicles) must be certified by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to all applicable
U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSSs). Vehicles modified from their
original state other than regular maintenance may not be imported. Also, confirmation of no
outstanding recalls on vehicles is required before the inspection form can be released by the
RIV.
The RIV Program assures that qualifying vehicles are modified, inspected, and certified to
meet Canadian safety standards. The RIV Program registration fee is $195 Canadian in all
provinces. In Quebec there is an additional Quebec Sales Tax (QST) charged (9.975
percent of the value plus the GST).
For further information on the RIV program see website at:

www.riv.ca/english/html/about_riv.html. Livingston International administers the RIV
program on behalf of Transport Canada and can be reached at 1-888-848-8240, Fax: (416)-
626-0366.
MEXICO - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Commercial Use Vehicles 9,881,728 9,688,940 10,093,201
The North American Free Trade Agreement supplanted Mexico’s Automotive Decrees on
light and heavy vehicles, providing for the staged elimination of Mexican tariffs, market
access restrictions, import trade balancing requirements, and market share restrictions. With
only the one exception noted below, all barriers have been eliminated on imports from the
U.S. that meet NAFTA rule of origin.
Tariffs:
The following free duty advantage is applicable only to vehicles, trucks, and auto parts that
comply with a NAFTA Certificate of Origin.
 The tariff applied to cars is zero percent.

 The tariff applied to trucks is zero percent.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is zero percent.
 Regular duty 20% for non-NATFANAFTA new vehicles or trucks and 50% for
non-NATFANAFTA used vehicles and trucks. Non-NATFANAFTA parts have five
percent tariff but might increase depending on country of origin.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax is 16 percent nationwide
 ISAN – New vehicle taxation applied upon vehicle’s value; as follows:
New vehicle value Extra percentage and fixed quota

Up to $233,343.40 MXP 2% no quota
More than $233,343.40 MXP 5% plus $4,666.79 MXP
More than $280,012.02 MXP 10% plus $7,033 MXP
 IGI payment (General Import Tax)
IGI payment (General Import Tax)

Model Years Mixed Tax
5 1% + USD$300
6 1% + USD$250
7 1% + USD$200
8 1% + USD$150
9 1% + USD$100
10 or more 1% + USD$50
Import Restrictions:
 Imports of used automobiles and heavy trucks have requirements for the importer
and custom agent.
 Imports of remanufactured parts is allowed. However, U.S. remanufacturers cannot
comply with NATFA Certificate due to the remanufacturing process in sourcing
parts from overseas.
Used Vehicles:
 As originally negotiated, NAFTA allowed Mexico to continue to restrict imports of

used vehicles until January 1, 2009, when a 10-year phase out based on vehicle age
would commence, subject to new requirements.
 New decrees issued by Mexico came into force changing the requirements for
imports of used vehicles, reducing imports. Changes dated February 14, 2005,
August 22, 2015, April 26, 2006, February 1, 2008, December 24, 2008, January 26,
2009, July 1, 2011, January 31, 2013 and latest on August 29, 2014.
 The Mexican government maintains the allowed entry of used vehicles from the
United States and Canada, subject to new requirements for the importers if qualify
as:
o Persona Fisica: Individuals can import one used vehicle during a

twelve-month period without the requirement of signing up to the Padron
de Importadores, which is Mexico’s official importers registry. Once
imported, vehicles should be registered in accordance with the Public
Vehicle Registry Law (Repuve). If they need to import more than one
used vehicle, they should be signed up in the Padron de Importadores
and have a RFC (Federal Taxpayer’s Registration).
o Persona Moral: Companies or proprietors can also import one used

vehicle in a twelve-month period without the requirement of signing up
to the Patron de Importadores, which is Mexico’s official importers
registry. For unlimited number of used vehicles they can import them as
long as they are signed up at the Padron de Importadores. In addition,
they are mandated to provide import records on a monthly basis to the
Mexican Government Entity for Taxation (SAT).
 Requirements for Importers
Customs Agent (affiliated to custom of entry of vehicle)

Bill of Lading for permanent import per car with code as Appendix 2 and Annex 2
Invoice stamped “shipper export” by US customs
Reference Price
Brand, make and model year
NIV (Vehicle Identification Number)
RFC (Federal Taxpayer’s Registration)
CURP (Unique Population Registry Code – Personal ID Number)
INE (Official Elections Voting and ID card)
Proof of Address
Vehicle must be physically driven so as to pass customs
Preferential Duty as per FTA
VAT payment (Value Added Tax) 16 percent
DTA payment (Custom’s Paperwork Fee)
Payment through wire transfer / check
 Importers of used vehicles are required to post a guarantee representing any

difference in duties and taxes if the declared customs value is less than the
established reference price. Otherwise, if a lower valuation can be formally justified
or proven, the importer is reimbursed within a period of no longer than three
months. Reference prices can be found in this link, as per the decree on January 26,
2009:
http://www.dof.gob.mx/nota_detalle.php?codigo=5078407&fecha=26/01/2009

Model Years Mixed Tax
5 1% + USD$300
6 1% + USD$250
7 1% + USD$200
8 1% + USD$150
9 1% + USD$100
10 or more 1% + USD$50
 If the VIN of a used vehicle indicates that it was manufactured in one of the
NAFTA member countries, it will not require a prior permission (license or
authorization to legally import) from the Secretary of Economy, or a NAFTA
Certificate of Origin to be imported into Mexico.
 Vehicles under harmonized code numbers: 8704.22.07, 8704.23.02, 8704.32.07 for

merchandise transportation 8702.10.05 or 8702.90.06 for transportation of sixteen
or more passengers, 8702.20.02 for tractors or 8705.40.02 for other trucks.
 Rest of the Country: Individuals or companies can import used vehicles allowed if
four to nine years old and five to ten years old for heavy vehicles with a 10% ad-
valorem tax.
 Border Zone: Individuals or companies with location in the border zone including
Baja California Norte and Sur, Sonora (Cananea and Caborca), can import used
vehicles if five to nine years old with one percent ad-valorem tax. If used vehicles
are 10 years old with a 10% ad-valorem tax.
 Import Restrictions
Used vehicles in a condition that is restricted or prohibited from circulating in their own
country of origin, will be prohibited from importation into Mexico. Used vehicle
restrictions also apply for the following conditions, some of which may be indicated on
the vehicle’s deed of title:
Parts only
Assembled parts
Total Loss (except those with deed of title “salvage”, “clean”, “rebuilt” or “corrected”).
Dismantlers
Destruction
Non repairable
Non rebuildable
Non street legal
Flood (except those with deed of title “clean”, “rebuilt” or “corrected”).
Junk
Crush
Scrap
Seizure / forfeiture
Off-highway use only
Water damage
Not eligible for road use
Salvage category whenever these types: except those with deed of title “clean”, “rebuilt” or
“corrected”.
DLR (Dealer License Requirement) Salvage
Salvage – parts only
Lemon salvage
Salvage letter – parts only
Flood salvage
Salvage Cert-Lemon Buyback
Salvage Certificate – No VIN
Salvage Title w / No Public VIN
DLR / Salvage Title Rebuildable
Salvage Theft
Salvage Title – Manufacture Buyback
Court Order Salvage Bos
Salvage / Fire Damage
Salvage with Replacement VIN
Bonded Salvage
Watercraft Salvage
Salvage Katrina
Salvage Title with Altered VIN
Salvage With Reassignment
Salvage Non Removable
Stolen (only when the deed of title indicates it was recovered and valid status)
Frame Damage
Fire Damage
Recycled
Crash Test Vehicle
 Custom Agent’s Obligations:

Request from the importer the original title and verify that it doesn’t mention any of the
above categories and that the document is not scratched, with corrections, erasure, or
any characteristic that provokes suspicion that it was modified or counterfeited.
Moreover, after checking this document, it is mandatory to note on the document: “File
a sworn statement that the presented document is a true copy of the original I’ve seen”.
Verify with the country of origin’s vehicle through confederations, chambers, or
associations that the vehicle to be imported has not been stolen, damaged, crashed,
restricted, or forbidden from circulating in their own country of origin. The Custom
Agent should provide a copy to the importer where the NIV appears. This measure
applies only to vehicles from the United States whose model year is less than 30 years
to importation’s date. The Custom Agent should provide the following information:
a) Verify that the vehicle has not been stolen

b) Deed of title
c) NIV Decodification
d) Code and Bill of Lading, as well as RFC or CURP for the importer
 The source of information from the country of origin should have online capability
for SAT to verify that the vehicle is not stolen. Likewise, the importer should also
verify in the Mexican Public Vehicle Registry (REPUVE) that the vehicle was not
also stolen in Mexico. Take a digital picture of the NIV and attach it to the bill of
lading.
 Comply with Mexican standards for emission controls as per the NOM-041-
SEMARNAT-2006 and NOM-047-SEMARNAT-1999 for vehicles and NOM-076-
SEMARNAT-2012 and NOM-044-SEMARNAT-2006 for buses, trucks and
tractors.
 By 2019, as per NAFTA, Mexico may not adopt or maintain a prohibition or

restriction on imports of used vehicles from the United States.
Local/Regional Content Requirements:
 The NATFA Chapter 403 for Automotive Goods for a producer's fiscal year
beginning on the day closest to January 1, 1998 and thereafter, 56 percent under the
net cost method, and for a producer's fiscal year beginning on the day closest to
January 1, 2002 and thereafter, 62.5 percent
 For a producer's fiscal year beginning on the day closest to January 1, 1998 and
thereafter, 55 percent under the net cost method, and for a producer's fiscal year
beginning on the day closest to January 1, 2002 and thereafter, 60 percent
 The regional value-content requirement for a motor vehicle identified in Article

403(1) or 403(2) is 50 percent for five years after the date on which the first motor
vehicle prototype is produced in a plant by a motor vehicle assembler, if
o 50 percent for two years after the date on which the first motor vehicle
prototype is produced at a plant following a refit, if it is a different motor
vehicle of a class, or marque, or, except for a motor vehicle identified in
Article 403(2), size category and underbody, than was assembled by the
motor vehicle assembler in the plant before the refit.
o As of January 1, 2002, at least 62.5 percent of a passenger car or light

truck’s net cost must be of value originating in North America. All other
vehicles must reach 60 percent North American content to qualify for zero
duty rates.
Other Measures:
 The Mexican government requires importers to have an import license in order to
import vehicles, trucks, or parts.
 Effective November 2011, the Mexican government established mandatory

emission control standards for the import of used vehicles. To avoid red tape, U.S.
exporters can attach emission control state certificates from Arizona, California,
Texas, or New Mexico, as those states have very strict standards that are compliant
with Mexican Standard 041.
Membership in Trade & Economic Agreements:

Mexico has eleven Free Trade Agreements with 46 countries, 33 agreements for investment
promotion and protection and nine agreements of limited coverage as per ALADI. Mexico
is a member of WTO, APEC, OCDE and ALADI.
 NAFTA
 Bilateral initiatives with member countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia,
Costa Rica, Cuba, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua,
Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay
 MERCOSUR member (ACE 55 Automotive Chapter with Brazil)
 MERCOSUR member (ACE 54 Automotive Chapter with Argentina)
 Regional Initiatives: Pacific Alliance, Latin American Arch, Free Trade Agreement
with Central America and decisions on the FTA with Central America.
 EUROPEAN UNION agreement
 ASIA-PACIFIC agreements with member countries such as: Australia, Korea,
China, India, Israel, Japan, and Singapore.
SOUTH/CENTRAL AMERICAN AND CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES SURVEYED:
ARGENTINA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars is 21.5 percent.
 The tariff applied to trucks ranges from 15.5-21.5 percent.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) ranges from 1.5-19.5 percent (most in
the 15.5-19.5 percent range).
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax (VAT): cars (21 percent); trucks (10.5 percent)
 An additional "advanced" VAT of 6-8 percent (based on CIF value plus the duty and
the import statistics fee of 10 percent)
 Various provincial sales taxes
 Duty Surcharge (0.5 percent)
 Statistical tax (3 percent)
 A 3 percent advanced profit tax, charged on the custom value of goods
 Import ban on used vehicles
 Import license required
 Foreign vehicles which do not have a domestic equivalent are subject to import quotas.
This quota system limits imports to a percentage of total domestic production (for
example, in 1994 this quota was 10 percent). The rights of the quotas are auctioned off,
and the bidder willing to pay the most amount above the average duty wins the quota.
However, dealers can bid on a portion of the quota allotment by offering to pay an
additional import duty over the regular 20 percent. Individuals may also participate,
along with dealers, in special periodic quota allotments, under the same bidding system.
Both individuals and dealers are limited to two imported vehicles per year. Assemblers
who also import vehicles are also committed to maintain a higher level of exports than
imports.
 Products including automotive parts – appears to be those classified under the two digit
HS codes 82 and 83 - have limited ports of entry according to the 2010 NTE which
points to this regulation: http://www.infoleg.gov.ar/infolegInternet/anexos/130000-
134999/131847/norma.htm
 In February 2011, the country began requiring import licenses for a significant list of
automotive parts. The licenses are not automatically granted. Even if granted the
licenses can take significant time to process:
http://www.buyusainfo.net/docs/x_5274375.pdf
 The import of used, rebuilt or remanufactured automotive parts is banned with the
exception that Original Equipment Manufacturers (vehicle assemblers) can import and
market remanufactured parts to service their own products.
Local Content/Regional Content Requirements:
The Governments of Argentina and Brazil allow local automakers to import a certain
number of cars and trucks from each other duty-free. This quota is adjusted each year by
the respective Governments. As of January 1, 2008, this “flex-program” is based on a ratio
of Brazil (1.00) to Argentina (1.95).
Regarding local content there is no index, except for the special agreements with Brazil and
Uruguay where the regional content required is of a minimum of 60%.
Other Measures:
 Not Applicable

 MERCOSUR member
 ALADI
 Andean Community
 Bolivia
 Chile (auto only)
 Colombia (auto only)
 Ecuador
 Mexico (auto with quota)
 Venezuela
 European Community
 India
 Peru (auto only)
 Egypt
 WTO (no CKD bindings)

BOLIVIA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Personal Use Vehicles 218,736 231,721 245,200
Commercial Use Vehicles 295,010 353,263 410,000
Tariffs:
 Bolivia has a three-tier tariff structure. Capital goods designated for industrial
development may enter duty-free; non-essential capital goods are subject to five percent
tariffs; and most other goods are subject to 10 percent tariffs. Heavy trucks greater than
or equal to 6 tons are considered capital goods and are subject to 5 percent tariffs. All
other automotive goods are subject to 10 percent tariffs.
Taxes:
 Bolivia levies a 14.94 percent effective value-added tax and a 10 percent specific
consumption tax on car sales.
 Imported goods are also subject to customs warehouse fees (which vary with volume)
and customs brokers’ fees of up to 2 percent of the CIF price.
Other Measures:
 Bolivia requires pre-shipment valuation inspections.
Regional/Local Content:
 There are no regional or local content regulations or restrictions.
 Bolivia prohibits the importation of cars over five years old, diesel vehicles with
engines smaller than 4,000 cubic centimeters, and all vehicles that use liquefied
petroleum gas.
Membership in Trade and Economic Agreements:

Andean Community
MERCOSUR associate member
Chile
Mexico
European Community
WTO
Brazil – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Taxes on automobiles:
Import Tax: 35% over CIF value.
Sales Tax (ICMS): state tax, varies by state. 18% in Sao Paulo
Tax on Industrial Products (IPI)
2% for 1.0 liter engine models;
8% for higher power engine models;
38% for imported cars.
Social Contribution Tax (Cofins): 7.6% of the final price
Social Contribution Tax (PIS): 1.65%
Taxes on Autoparts
Import Tax: 20%; 18%; 16%; 14% and 10% over CIF Value. Note that a large number of
automotive parts are classified as “ No Tarifarios” (not locally produced) and enjoy an
import tax reduction to 2%.
IPI: 5%, 12% and 15% (varies by products)
PIS: 2.62% and 2.68%
Cofins: 13.57%
ICMS: varies by state. 18% in Sao Paulo
CHILE – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

The United States and Chile implemented a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on January 1,
2004.
Tariffs:
 All new imported motor vehicles and automotive parts coming from non-treaty
countries are assessed Chile's uniform tariff rate of 6 percent, based on the CIF value
(see Various Trade Arrangements).
 Used automotive parts coming from non-treaty countries are assessed an additional
tariff surcharge equal to 50 percent of the tariff.
 While the FTA provides an opportunity for cores used in remanufactured products to
qualify under origin requirements, remanufactured automotive products are specifically
excluded.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax (VAT) of 19 percent, charged on the sum of the CIF value and the
amount of the duty. This tax is chargeable to the importer, not the foreign supplier.
(Imports by Chilean Government offices and Armed forces are not subject to import
duties or taxes.)
 Emissions tax (Impuesto Verde) determined by levels of Mpg city, emission of nitrogen
oxide and the selling price of the vehicle.
Other Measures:
 Import of remanufactured, rebuilt and/or used motor vehicle parts is allowed, however
Chilean Customs tends to heavily question such imports with an apparent eye toward
whether they will be used to assemble used vehicles or a significant portion of a used
vehicle once in the country (see Import Restrictions below). Such investigations
hamper the importation process of remanufactured rebuilt and/or used motor vehicle
parts.
 In Chile the importation of used vehicles is prohibited. Chile does allow imports of
used ambulances, funeral hearse cars, fire-fighting vehicles, street cleaning vehicles,
irrigation vehicles, towing vehicles, television projection equipment vehicles, armored
commercial vehicles, workshop vehicles, cement making trucks, prison vans,
radiological equipment vehicles, motor homes, off-road transportation vehicles, and
other similar vehicles for special purposes, different from common transportation
vehicles. These used vehicles pay a 9 percent import duty plus VAT. Fire-fighting
vehicles are not subject to import duties, and pay the VAT on the CIF value only. A
vehicle is considered new if: 1) It is of the current year; or The model is of the last year
but the importation occurred before April 30th, and 2) the vehicle has no more mileage
than that required to transport the vehicle from the factory to the point of sale and
according to customs it corresponds to a first transaction vehicle (i.e., the invoice is
from the distributor or the factory). Special laws allow tax-exempt new/used car
imports by persons returning from exile or returning after living abroad (for one
complete year or more) for studies or work after a determined number of years. People
domiciled in two domestic free trade zones, Iquique in the north and Punta Arenas in
the south may also import used cars. Imports in these areas are exempt from customs
duties and VAT. (See Various Trade Arrangements).
 Automotive investment in Chile is governed by the "Automotive Statute", which allows
any car assembly company to operate in Chile. The Statute establishes a 13 percent
minimum of local content in vehicles assembled from completely knocked-down
(CKD) kits and 3 percent for vehicles assembled from semi-knocked down (SKD) kits.
Local vehicle assemblers and part manufacturers benefit from Article 3 of Law 18,483,
which exempts imported auto parts and components from customs duties if the importer
exports parts and components of specific, certified quality worth the same amount ex-
factory. If exported alone, the parts must include in country value-added of at least 50
percent. If they are built into vehicles that are assembled in Chile and then exported,
then the value-added component must be at least 70 percent. (This law is being
replaced by a new law called the Arica Law which gives incentives to establish in the
Arica industrial free trade zone for any manufacturing plant)
 An import report to the Central Bank is required, free of cost, for shipments above
US$500, CIF for statistical record keeping purposes.
 In the Metropolitan Area gasoline powered vehicles under 2,700 Kgs., need to comply
with TIER2 Federal/EURO 4; diesel powered vehicles under 2,500 Kgs., must comply
with TIER 2/EURO 5. Vehicles over 2,700 Kgs., but under 3860 Kgs., must comply
with EURO 5 or TIER 2. Buses must follow EPA 2007/EURO 5. Trucks must abide
with EPA 2007/EURO 5. As of October 2014, new emissions requirements were being
developed.

 United States
 Canada
 European Union
 Central America
 Panama
 Korea
 Mexico
 MERCOSUR
 Argentina
 Ecuador
 Peru
 New Zealand
 Singapore
 Brunei
 Japan
 Bolivia
 Colombia
 Venezuela
 ALADI
 WTO
 GATT
 China
 India
COLOMBIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Commercial Use Vehicles 883,814 974,000 1,251,328
Tariffs:
 The import tariff applied to cars is 35 percent.
 The import tariff applied to trucks is 15 percent.
 Automotive parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) tariffs range between 5 – 10 percent.
 Complete Knock Down Kits can qualify for zero tariffs under the Andean Automotive
Policy.
 With the implementation of the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, 53% of
U.S. industrial exports received duty-free treatment. Tariffs on another 23% of exports
will be eliminated over five years and the remaining 24% over ten years tariff reduction
(starting in May 2012).
Taxes:
 VAT is assessed on the F.O.B. value plus applicable duties:
-- Four-wheel-drive vehicles (16 percent)
-- All other cars (16 percent); unless the F.O.B. value plus tariff is greater
than or equal to US $30,000, in which case the Consumption Tax is 16
percent.
-- Ambulances and hearses (16 percent)
-- Electric vehicles for public transportation-taxis (5 percent)
 Since January 1996, all imports and sales of automotive parts and accessories transacted
in Colombia are subject to a 16 percent value-added tax (IVA in Spanish). This tax
applies to both locally produced goods and imports and, in the case of imports, is
assessed on top of the CIF value and import tariff.
 Consumption Tax for private owned vehicles (HTS 8703-8704 and 8711) of FOB value
equal or lower than USD$ 30,000 is 8%
 Consumption Tax for private owned vehicles (HTS 8703-8704) of FOB value higher
than US$ 30,000 is 16% (Vehicles - Luxury Tax).
 The Andean Automotive Policy bans imports from other countries of used cars, trucks,
buses and motorcycles, as well as new vehicles from previous years. It also bans trade
in these vehicles among the member nations.
 Imports of rebuilt, and/or used motor vehicle parts are not authorized.
 With the implementation of the FTA with the U.S., Colombia is accepting re-
manufactured auto parts listed under Chapter Four, Rules of Origin and Origin
Procedures, Section A - Rules of Origin, ANNEX 4.18 (The country is formulating
policies to allow the import of remanufactured products to meet commitments under its
FTA with the United States).
Local/ Regional Content Requirements:

 The Andean Automotive Complementary Agreement signed in 1999, removed the
initial requirement of minimum regional/local content (24%) to reduce import duties.
Automotive parts and passenger vehicles with a capacity of up to 16 persons and cargo
vehicles of 4.5 tons weight (Category 1), and other type of vehicles (Category 2), will
just need to comply with specific origin requirement established by the General
Secretary Office of the Andean Community.
Other Measures:
 There are no limitations on the types of models imported, and no special import permits
are required. However, imported vehicles must be registered with the Colombian
government prior to shipment (Dynamics Certified Emissions Test conducted by
Colombian Environmental Licensing Authority-ANLA). Local assemblers are free to
assemble vehicles of any model and are also allowed to import vehicles.
 Colombia has required gas emission/evaporation control systems (to reduce gasoline
tank and carburetor emissions) and a gas emission control system or positive ventilation
valve (to control crankcase gas emissions) on all gasoline engine motor vehicles
imported into or assembled in Colombia since January 1, 1994.
 Colombia has required catalytic converters to be installed on imported and locally
produced vehicles since January 1, 1995.
 Colombia is distributing gasoline with 10 percent ethanol to comply with Law 693 of
2001 (for environmental protection) since November 2, 2005.
 Since January 2015, Colombia requires EURO IV - EU emission standards to heavy-
duty diesel engines for freight or passenger transportation (buses and trucks), per
Resolution 1111, enacted on September 2, 2013.
 Imported or assembled vehicles in Colombia need to comply with Technical
Regulations applicable to seat belts, pneumatic tires, and safety glazing.

 United States
 Mexico
 El Salvador
 Guatemala
 Honduras
 CARICOM
 MERCOSUR
 Chile
 European Free Trade Association: Switzerland, Liechtenstein
 Canada
 Venezuela
 Cuba
 Nicaragua
 European Union
 ALADI
 WTO (no truck, CKD or automotive parts bindings)
FTA’s signed but not implemented

 Costa Rica
 Panama
 Israel
 South Korea
 Pacific Partnership (Chile, Colombia, México & Perú)
COSTA RICA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 passenger cars – 1-15 percent
 trucks and buses – 0-15 percent
 automotive parts – 1-10
Costa Rica held a nation-wide referendum that ratified its participation in the CAFTA-
DR Free Trade Agreement on October 7, 2007. Many U.S.-origin automotive parts are
receiving tariff elimination since then. Virtually all remaining automotive parts were
subject to back weighted 10 year tariff phase-outs. Some U.S.-origin vehicles received
immediate tariff elimination, but most automobiles and light trucks are subject to the
same back weighted tariff phase out.
 Find more information on the CAFTA-DR at:
http://www.ustr.gov/Trade_Agreements/Regional/CAFTA/Section_Index.html
Taxes:
 New and used automobiles are also taxed heavily, ranging up to 54 percent of the
assessed (not actual) value of the car, depending upon the age of the vehicle. Taxes on
imported products are calculated on a cumulative basis and generally include: a) Ad
valorem tax or duty --applied against CIF (cost, insurance & freight) value, (also known
in Costa Rica as "D.A.I.")--duty rates currently range from 1 to 10 percent for motor
vehicle parts; b) Consumption tax --applied against total cumulative sum of CIF value,
plus the ad valorem tax --tax rates currently range from 0 to 25 percent for motor
vehicle parts; c) Law 6946 tax --applied against CIF value -- currently 1 percent for all
products; and, d) Sales tax --applied against total cumulative sum of CIF value, plus any
ad valorem tax, plus the consumption tax, plus Law 6946 tax currently 13 percent for
all products.
 The potential taxes on imported vehicles can be viewed at:
http://www.hacienda.go.cr/autohacienda/Autovalor.aspx
Note: In short, about half the final price of a car in Costa Rica is comprised of a cascade of
internal taxes.
Other Measures:
 To calculate tariffs and taxes on used vehicles, Costa Rica uses values reported by the
U.S. N.A.D.A. Official Used Car Guide. This reference pricing for automobiles
disadvantages U.S. models versus Korean models in the Costa Rican market. U.S.
vehicle values are based upon NADA Blue Book values while Korean values are based
upon an individual Korean company’s publication which understates Korean car prices.
 Costa Rican law requires the exclusive use of the metric system but, in practice, accepts
U.S. and European commercial and product standards.
 It is forbidden to import vehicles with a right-side steering wheel.
 The Government of Costa Rica prohibits importing used tires without rims.

 Canada
 China
 Mexico
 Panama (AELC)
 Association of Caribbean States
 WTO
 GATT
 Chile
 Peru
 Singapore
 Central America/DR Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA – DR)
 Central America - European Union Association Agreement (AACUE)
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 passenger cars – 8-20% (generally 20%)
 trucks and buses – 8-20% (generally 20%)
 automotive parts – 8-14% (generally 8%)
 The CAFTA-DR Free Trade Agreement was implemented in March 2007. Many U.S.-
origin automotive parts received immediate tariff elimination. Virtually all remaining
automotive parts were subject to a 5 year tariff phase out in 5 equal stages (20% per
year). Some U.S.-origin vehicles received immediate tariff elimination, but most
automobiles and light trucks are subject to 5 to 10 year tariff phase-outs.
Taxes:
 Vehicles are generally subject to the Luxury Tax (Impuesto Selectivo al Consumo). It
is a consumption tax for luxury imports or “non-essential” goods that ranges between
15 and 60 percent. The tax is calculated on the CIF price.
 There is a 17 percent tax on the first matricula (registration document) for all vehicles.
 The Dominican Republic assesses all imported new and used passenger vehicles
(except pick-up trucks) with a variable ISC, and an eight percent sales tax. The tariff
amount is not included in the calculation of the ISC; however, the sales tax is assessed
on the sum of the vehicle's value plus the tariff plus the ISC. The table below explains
the rates:
Dominican Republic ISC Tax Table
Price U.S. $ Basic-R.D. $ (%)* Marginal Excess (%)
0 - 7,000 0 0 0
7,001 - 10,000 0 0 15
10,001 - 14,000 5,625 (4) 30
14,001 - 20,000 20,625 (12) 45
20,001 - 26,000 54,375 (21) 60
26,001 - 32,000 99,375 (30) 80
32,001 and above --- (45) ---
*The percentages in parentheses indicate what the basic tax rate is for vehicles priced at the
beginning of each range (using an exchange rate of 12.8 RD$/US$). The second
percentage applies to the excess over the beginning value of the range. As an example, a
car priced at US $12,000 would be subject to the basic amount of RD $5,625 or US $439,
plus the marginal amount of US $600 (30 percent of US $2,000, the excess over US
$10,000) = a total ISC of US $1,039.
 The system uses published official list prices for automobiles, instead of price lists
supplied by the manufacturer, to determine the value upon which the ISC is based.
 The decree depreciates the value base for each model year of a car's age up to seven
years according to the following scale: vehicles one year older than the current model
year, 5 percent depreciation; two years older, 10 percent depreciation; three years older,
15 percent depreciation; four years older, 20 percent depreciation; five years older, 30
percent depreciation; six years older, 40 percent depreciation; seven years older or
more, 50 percent depreciation. Thus, for a used car two years older than the current
model year, the DR will deduct 10 percent from that model's new car price and use the
resulting value as the base from which to calculate the tariff and ISC.
 The import of automobiles and light trucks (under 5 tons) over 5 years old is prohibited
under law no. 147 of December 27, 2000. This provision is however frequently
overlooked.
 The import of vehicles 5 tons or heavier over 15 years old is prohibited under law no.
12-01 of January 17, 2001.

 Costa Rica
 Honduras
 Nicaragua
 El Salvador
 Panama
 United States
 WTO (no automotive parts bindings)
 GATT
ECUADOR – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 As a member of the Complementary Convention in the Automotive Sector and/or
Andean Automotive Policy with Colombia and Venezuela, Ecuador shares common
external automotive tariffs of 35 percent for automobiles, 10 percent for trucks and
buses (15 percent for the other members), and a concession rate of 3 percent for CKD
kits available to assemblers participating in the regional/local content scheme (see
below).
 Automotive parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) are subject to customs duties ranging from 5
to 15 percent.
Taxes:
 VAT: 12 percent for vehicles and automotive parts
 Special tax: 5.15 percent (Special Consumption Tax – ICE) + 25 percent uplift
(Commercialization Margin)
 Special Contribution: .5 percent (Childhood Development Funds FODINFA)
Non-Tariff Measures:
 Not Applicable.
 Under the Andean Automotive Policy, a regional/local content scheme was established
for a five-year period so that vehicles and parts could be traded amongst all three
countries duty-free. For example, the 1995-96 minimum requirement was set at 30
percent for automotive parts and passenger vehicles with a capacity of up to 16 persons
and merchandise transport vehicles of a total weight of 4.5 tons (Category 1), and at 15
percent for other types of vehicles (Category 2).
 To enjoy the privilege of importing CKD material with a 3 percent import duty,
assemblers must incorporate local content of 33 percent for Category 1 and 18 percent
for Category 2.
 The regional content requirement was 24.8 percent in 2000 and was set to increase to
34.7 percent by 2009.
 The Andean Automotive Policy prohibits imports from other countries of used cars,
trucks, and buses, as well as new vehicles from previous years. It also bans trade in
these vehicles among the member nations.
 Import of CKD's is subject to a quota assignment by the National Automotive
Commission and regulated by the automotive development law. Importation is limited
to those brands having a distributor and/or an authorized concessionary in the country
to guarantee an adequate supply of spare parts.
Other Measures:
 Importers require a “Conformity Certificate” provided by INEN (Ecuadorian National
Standards Institute). Once obtained, it is presented for approval to the central bank.
 Every automobile (CDU) must come with a technical report verifying it complies with
applicable environmental standards.
 There are no regulations concerning engine emissions, safety, or noise.
 Local assemblers are free to assemble vehicles of any model and are also allowed to
import vehicles.
 There are no requirements or standards for parts imports, nor are there labeling
requirements.
 The chaotic customs systems, creates disincentives to import goods through formal
channels, and incentives for contraband. Many auto parts, for example, enter disguised
as other goods that carry lower (or zero) customs duty.

 Andean Community Member
 ALADI
 Cuba
 Uruguay
 Paraguay
 MERCOSUR
 WTO (no automotive parts bindings)
 GATT
EL SALVADOR - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff ranges from 1-30% for passenger cars.
 The tariff for trucks and buses is 1%.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is 1% percent.
 El Salvador was the first country to implement the Central America-Dominican
Republic-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). Most U.S.-origin
automotive parts received immediate tariff elimination when the agreement came
into force. Some U.S.-origin vehicles received immediate tariff elimination, but
most automobiles and light trucks are subject to back weighted 10 year tariff phase-
outs (most of the tariff cut occurs in the last several years).
Taxes:
 The Value Added Tax (VAT) is 13%.
 Unlike new parts, importers of used, remanufactured and rebuilt parts do not have to
show an invoice from the manufacturer to calculate the 13% which is estimated by
Salvadoran Customs authorities.
 El Salvador maintains restrictions on the import of passenger vehicles older than
eight years, buses older than 10 years and trucks older than 15 years (from Article 1
of Decree No. 357 dated April 6, 2001).

 There are no local content requirements.
Other measures:
 The amount set forth in the commercial invoice is used to determine the tariff
assessment for vehicles. If there is doubt about the accuracy of the stated price,
Salvadoran Customs assesses its own value. For valuation of used cars, Customs
uses N.A.D.A., Edmund's, the Truck Blue Book, The Older Car Red Book, The
Truck Blue Book and the Motorcycle Red Book.
 Every automobile must come with a Certification of Gas Emissions from the
manufacturer verifying it complies with applicable environmental standards.
(According to Salvadoran Transit and Transportation Law, Official Publication No.
212, Book No. 329, dated November 16, 1995). This certification needs to be
authenticated in the country of origin.

 CACM - Central American Common Market
 Dominican Republic
 Panama
 United States
 Chile
 Argentina
 Ecuador
 Peru
 Mexico
 Taiwan
 Colombia
 WTO
 GATT
GUATEMALA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Commercial Use Vehicles 998,000 1,039,573 1,087,900
Tariffs:
 passenger cars – (5 passengers or less) 20%, (6-9 passengers) 15%
 trucks and buses – 5-10%
 automotive parts – 20%
 The Central America-Dominican Republic-United States Free Trade Agreement

(CAFTA-DR) was implemented with Guatemala on July 1, 2006. Most U.S.-origin
automotive parts received immediate tariff elimination when the agreement came into
force. Some U.S.-origin vehicles received immediate tariff elimination, but most
automobiles and light trucks are subject to back weighted 10 year tariff phase-outs
(most of the tariff cut occurs in the last several years).
Other Measures:
 Many importers report that Guatemalan customs arbitrarily assigns values to imported
products.
 In Guatemala City, model year restrictions exist preventing the operation of buses in the
city by denying permits to use them.

 Panama
 United States
 Chile
 WTO
 GATT
HONDURAS - New Motor Vehicle Sales (in units)
2006 2007 2008

Total Motor Vehicles 11,447 16,651 15,725
Source: Auto Strategies International Inc.
Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars is 3.4 percent.
 The tariff applied to trucks is 6.8 – 10.2 percent.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is 0 percent.

(CAFTA-DR) was implemented with Honduras on April 1, 2006. Most U.S.-origin
automotive parts received immediate tariff elimination when the agreement came
into force. Some U.S.-origin vehicles received immediate tariff elimination, but
most automobiles and light trucks are subject to back weighted 10 year tariff phase-
outs (most of the tariff cut occurs in the last several years).
Taxes:
 A general 12 percent sales tax is applied to most products. Trucks are exempted
from this tax.
 A Special Consumption/luxury tax on new cars is 10 percent.
 Under the Financial Balance and Social Protection Act (Article 7 of Decree No.
194-2002 from May 15, 2002), imports of ground motor vehicles over seven
years old and passenger buses over thirteen years old are prohibited, except for
those considered to be classic collectible cars. The CAFTA-DR agreement does
not address this trade restriction.
 Imports of right-hand drive vehicles are also prohibited.

 There are no local/regional content requirements.
Other Measures:
 There are no import licensing requirements for imports of vehicles and auto parts.

 CAFTA-DR (U.S.-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement)
 CACM – Central American Common Market
 Association Agreement European Union- Central America
 WTO
 FTA Central America - Panama
 FTA Central America –Chile
 FTA CA3-Colombia
 FTA CA3- México
 FTA Central America – Dominican Republic
 FTA Honduras-El Salvador-Taiwan
 FTA Honduras-Canada (Negotiation completed. Pending ratification in Congress)
JAMAICA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 passenger cars –5-40%
 automotive parts – 0-25%
Other Measures:
 Import licensing is required for some motor vehicles and parts. An import license for
motor vehicles can be granted every three years in the case of a private importer. The
number of vehicles that may be imported by a dealer is not limited. Car dealers must
meet a number of preliminary conditions: they must be approved and certified by the
Ministry of Commerce and Technology and registered under the Companies Act 1965,
offer guarantees to clients, and maintain spare parts facilities and stocks. Inspection
and re-certification of dealers are made annually by the Ministry of Commerce and
Technology.
 The age of motor vehicles that can be imported was reduced in April 2003 from four to
three years for cars and from five to four years for light commercial. Special waivers
are available for older cars.

 CARICOM - Caribbean Community and Common Market
 Colombia
 Venezuela
 WTO
 GATT
NICARAGUA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 passenger cars – 5-10%
 automotive parts – 5-10%

(CAFTA-DR) was implemented with Nicaragua on April 1, 2006. Most U.S.-origin
automotive parts received immediate tariff elimination when the agreement came into
force. Some U.S.-origin vehicles received immediate tariff elimination, but most
automobiles and light trucks are subject to back weighted 10 year tariff phase-outs
(most of the tariff cut occurs in the last several years).
Taxes:
 Although the 1997 tax law eliminated many special tax exemptions, investors still
express frustration at the arbitrary and centralized decision making in taxation and
customs procedures.
 Tariffs and import taxes for most used goods are not assessed on a CIF/bill of lading
basis, but rather on a "reference price" determined by Customs at the time of entry
inspection. This reference price can be significantly higher than the actual amount paid
by importers. Presentation of a bill of sale (or other evidence of purchase price)
certified by a Nicaraguan consular official is often, but not always, accepted by
Customs inspectors as proof of the value of used goods.
 A luxury tax is levied through the selective consumption tax (IEC) on many items.
Cars with large engines (greater than 4000 cc) face an IEC tax of 25 percent. Vehicles
with smaller engines are charged between zero and three percent IEC tax.
Other Measures:
 The government has established a mandatory registration for importers (RNI).
Importers claim that the RNI creates additional costs, since they must be cleared by
several agencies that have nothing to do with many importer's commercial activities
(i.e., the tax agency, Nicaraguan customs, the electricity distribution company, and the
ENITEL telephone company).
 The Consumer Protection Law enacted in 1995, as well as its regulations promulgated
in 1999, introduced product labeling standards and consumer rights to Nicaragua.
While most U.S. products will likely meet Nicaraguan regulations by following U.S.
guidelines, the following should be noted: the label must list product origin, contents,
price, weight, production date, and expiration date.
 Although information is required to be in Spanish, historically Nicaragua has not
enforced its language requirements.
 The Ground Transportation Law (2005/524) prohibits the import of motor vehicles that
are more than 10 years old.

 Panama
 United States
 Chile
 Argentina
 Ecuador
 Peru
 WTO
 GATT
PANAMA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to new cars is 18 percent of the CIF value if is less than USD$
20,000
 The tariff applied to new cars is 23 percent of the CIF value if is between USD$
20,000 and USD$25,000
 The tariff applied to new cars is 25 percent if the cost exceeds USD$ 25,000.
 The tariff applied to trucks is 10 percent.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is between 5-15 percent.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax is 7 percent
 There are no import restrictions on new or used cars and trucks into Panama.

 There are no Local/Regional contents required for Panama.
Other Measures:
 Panama requires legalization of documents for products shipped by surface
transportation. See the Guatemala section for an explanation of this procedure.
 Some auto parts import volume is limited.

 Costa Rica
 Honduras
 Nicaragua
 El Salvador
 United States
 Canada
 Mexico
 Colombia
 Chile
 WTO
 GATT
PARAGUAY – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 Motor vehicle tariffs currently range from 10 to 20 percent depending on engine
displacement.
 Truck tariffs range from 10 to 16 percent.
 Automotive parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) ranges from 0-19.5 percent (most in the 10-
16 percent range).
Taxes:
 A transfer tax is applicable on all auto sales, and a separate registration fee is also
charged in addition to any applicable municipal vehicle tax.
Other Measures:
 Not Applicable
 For trade among the MERCOSUR countries, all products that have at least 60 percent
regional content are traded among these countries with a 0 percent import tax, although
trade is not free. Only Paraguay allows imports of MERCOSUR made vehicles with 0
percent import tariff without restriction.
 Not Applicable

 Ecuador
 MERCOSUR
 European Community
 Chile
 Egypt
 Bolivia
 India
 Mexico
 WTO
 GATT
 ALADI
PERU – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 Under the US – Peru Trade Promotion Agreement, tariffs are on most U.S.-made
automotive goods will be phased out in a 10 year period, declining by 10 percent per
year.
 The tariff applied to pick-up trucks, both diesel and gas, with maximum cargo of 5 tons
is to be reduced from 7% to tariff free by 2019
 The tariff applied to other vehicles varies between tariff free and 12% (reaching tariff
free by 2019).
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is between zero and 12% (all tariff
free by 2014) with most already facing no tariffs.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax (VAT) is 19% and is broken into two parts:
o General Sales Tax is 17%
o Municipal Promotion Tax is 2%
 Selective Consumption Tax for imported new cars and light trucks is 10% of the C.I.F.
value and the tariff amount
 Selective Consumption Tax for imported used vehicles is 30%
 All other imported vehicles and automotive parts are exempt from the Selective
Consumption Tax
 Imports of used tires and automotive parts are banned.
 Age restrictions allow for importation of diesel engines for passenger and cargo
vehicles that are 2 years old and less. Other used vehicles, excepting used diesel
engines, must be 5 years or less.
 Importation of the following used vehicles with diesel engines is prohibited:
o Vehicles with under 4 wheels
o Passenger vehicles with 8 seats or less (not counting driver)
o Passenger vehicles with 8 seats or more (not counting driver) but weighing
less than 5 tons of weight
o Trucks weighing less than 12 tons
 Mileage restrictions prohibit importation of spark ignition engine vehicles that reach
the following mileage (kilometers) at time of nationalization:
o Trucks (all sizes) – 31,068 miles (50,000 km)
o Passenger vehicles with 8 seats or less (not counting driver) – 49,709 miles
(80,000 km)
o Passenger vehicles with 8 seats or more but weighing less than 5 tons –
55,923 miles (90,000 km)
o Passenger vehicles with 8 seats or more weighing over 5 tons – 186,411
miles (300,000)
o Trucks weighing under 3.5 tons – 55,923 miles (90,000 km)
o Trucks weighing between 3.5 tons and 12 tons – 186,411 miles (300,000
km)
o Trucks weighing over 12 tons – 372,822 miles (600,000 km)
 Mileage restrictions prohibit importation of diesel engine vehicles that reach the
following mileage at time of nationalization:
o Passenger vehicles with 8 seats or more weighing over 5 tons – 124,274
miles (200,000)
o Trucks weighing over 12 tons – 248,548 (400,000 km)
 All imported vehicles must have a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
 Importation of a vehicle damaged in a car accident is prohibited.
 The position of the steering wheel must have been manufactured on the left side.
Importation of a car whose steering wheel is on the right or whose steering wheel has
been moved to the left is prohibited. Vehicles entering the ports of Ilo and Matarani for
reconditioning are exempt.
 Emissions cannot exceed current legal maximum.
 The following exceptions are not bound to the quality standards:
o Public sector donations
o National Diplomatic Services imports
o Age requirement is not waved for foreign administrative personnel or
employees of Diplomatic Missions, Consular Offices, Representatives and
Offices of International Organizations that are authorized by the Peruvian
government
o Vehicles that fall between the national subheadings of 8703.21.00.10 and
8703.90.00.90 must be at least 35 years old to be considered for collection
purposes. These vehicles may be imported for repair purposes but may not
be done in CETICOS or ZOFRATACNA.
Other Measures:
 Require a Unique Customs Declaration (carried out in Peru), an invoice, bill of
lading/airway bill.
 Insurance is optional
 Used vehicles requires the Type-Approval number and vehicle details according to the
National Vehicle Regulations as well as the VIN on the Unique Customs Declaration
 New vehicles imported by someone other than the filer of the Type-Approval are
required to provide proof by the manufacturer or Peruvian representative that the
vehicle to be nationalized corresponds to the Type-Approval. A Certificate of
Conformity can also be presented.
 Imported used vehicles require a verifying inspection.
 Remanufactured products currently must be sanctioned by their original manufacturer
and be certified by remanufacturer. A number of specific remanufacturing processes
must have taken place.

 Latin American Integration Association
 Free Trade Agreements with United States, Canada, Singapore, EFTA, Thailand, Japan,
Mexico, Korea, Central America and China
URUGUAY - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars is generally 23 percent. Lower tariffs and some
exemptions within quotas apply to cars imported from regional (MERCOSUR)
countries.
 The tariff applied to trucks is 7 to 8 percent.
Taxes:
 Special tax depending on fuel type: IMESI 46.7%
 Special Consumption tax:
o < 1000 cc 23%
o between 1000 and 1500 cc: 28.75%
o between 1500 and 2000 cc: 34.5%
o > 3000 cc: 46%
 A transfer tax is applicable on all auto sales.
Note: Because of taxes, in the best of cases a vehicle that costs $10,000 CIF, is sold to the
public at $20,000 and in the worst of cases, at $40,000.
 Imports ban on used vehicles.

 Regional Content Requirements: For the MERCOSUR countries (Brazil,
Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay) all products that have at least 60 percent
regional content (30 percent of which must be from Argentina) to be traded duty
free.

 Uruguay has bilateral investment treaties with several countries – including one
with the United States (signed in 2005) – and several Double Taxation Agreements
(none with the United States). Ecuador, Finland, Germany, Hungary, India,
Liechtenstein, Malta, Mexico, Portugal, Romania, South Korea, Spain and
Switzerland. Agreements with Belgium, United Arab Emirates and Vietnam are
pending parliamentary ratification.
 Uruguay has free trade agreements, both on a bilateral basis and as a member of
MERCOSUR, with most countries in South America plus Mexico.
VENEZUELA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 As a member of the Complementary Convention in the Automotive Sector and/or
Andean Automotive Policy with Colombia and Ecuador, Venezuela shares common
external automotive tariffs ranging from 20-35 percent for automobiles (most are at 35),
5-35 percent for trucks and buses (most are at 15; 10 percent for Ecuador), and a
concession rate of 3 percent for CKD kits available to assemblers participating in the
regional/local content scheme (see below).
 Automotive parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) tariffs range from 5 to 15 percent.
Taxes:
 VAT 14.5 percent, based on price of vehicle: CIF value, plus duty paid, plus customs
fee
 Transfer/local customs and service tax (5 percent), based on CIF value
 Customs handling fee (2 percent), based on CIF value
Other Measures:
 Local assemblers are free to assemble vehicles of any model and are also allowed to
import vehicles. However all local assemblers are subject to a "Foreign Exchange
Program.”
 There are no labeling, marking or packaging requirements. Since there is some
resistance by end users against non-identifiable manufacturers or countries of origin, it
is advisable to print on the package or label the name of the manufacturer and his
address or at least "Made in the USA". In the case of generic parts, it is helpful to list
the automobile brands, model and model years for which the component is applicable.
 Luxury Tax: 10 percent over $30,000.
 Article 10 of the new auto regime (published on October 31, 2007) requires all vehicles,
both import and assembled in Venezuela, to run on natural gas and gasoline
interchangeably. Minister of Popular Power for Energy and Petroleum (MENPET) and
President of Petroles de Venezuela S.A. (PDVSA) Rafael Ramirez, has said all new
vehicles sold in Venezuela after January 1, 2008 must have a pre-installed natural gas
converter kit. MENPET and PDVSA have imported 50,000 natural gas converter kits
and will distribute them to assemblers for free. Despite vehicle sales reaching nearly
500,000 in 2007, Ramirez said PDVSA only plans on importing 100,000 kits in 2008.
He added that if there was a need for more kits, PDVSA would import more. Importers
and assemblers report that the dual use requirement is impossible to meet by July 1 and
will in fact take years to meet because vehicles and production lines must be
redesigned. Diesel engines cannot use natural gas because their method of igniting fuel
cannot be altered.
 The October 2007 auto regime also imposes strict import quotas which are drastically
lower than 2007 imports. Each company must submit a plan by November 30, 2008.
Included in this quota is a prohibition on importing vehicles with motors larger than 3
liters.
 Strict foreign exchange controls are causing severe problems in the auto industry,
restricting importation of parts and equipment.
 Under the Andean Automotive Policy, a regional/local content scheme was established
so that vehicles and parts could be traded amongst all three countries duty-free. For
example, the 1995-96 minimum requirement was set at 30 percent for automotive parts
and passenger vehicles with a capacity of up to 16 persons and merchandise transport
vehicles of a total weight of 4.5 tons (Category 1), and at 15 percent for other types of
vehicles (Category 2).
 To enjoy the privilege of importing CKD material with a three percent import duty,
assemblers must incorporate local content of 33 percent for Category 1 and 18 percent
for Category 2.
 The regional content requirement in 2000 was 24.8 percent, and will increase to 34.7
percent by 2009.
 The Andean Automotive Policy prohibits imports from other countries of used cars,
trucks, and buses, as well as new vehicles from previous years. It also bans trade in
these vehicles among the member nations.
 Venezuela legislation published on October 31, 2007 limits vehicle imports to 219,000
units for 2008. The new auto import regime requires importers to solicit a license from
the Ministry of Light Industry and Commerce (MILCO) for authorization to receive
foreign exchange for the importation of assembled vehicles. According to the new
policy, the approval of these licenses depends on "national need, the capacity of
national production, model cost, historic sales, and the efficient use of fuel."

 Andean Community Member
 ALADI
 CARICOM
 Chile
 Costa Rica
 El Salvador
 Guatemala
 Guyana
 Honduras
 Nicaragua
 Trinidad and Tobago
 Andean Community – MERCOSUR
 Andean Community - European Union
 Group of Three
 WTO (no parts bindings)
 GATT
MIDDLE EAST COUNTRIES SURVEYED:
IRAN – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 U.S. companies are not allowed to export goods and services to Iran as outlined
by Executive Orders 12613, 12957, and 12959.
 In early 1992, Iran lifted its 10-year ban on automobiles.
 Individuals are now allowed to import permitted makes including: Mercedes Benz,
BMW, Volkswagen, Peugeot, Volvo, Mitsubishi, Honda, Subaru and Toyota.
ISRAEL - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars is 0 percent.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax - 18 percent (17 percent from October 1, 2015)
 Sales Tax on vehicles with conventional engine -83 percent
 Sales Tax on hybrid vehicles -30 percent (until 2017)
 Sales Tax on plugin vehicles -20 percent(until 2017)
 Sales tax on EV-10 percent
 Port Tax -1.5 percent
 Imports of used automobiles up to two years old are allowed and that meet Israeli
homologation standards
 Imports of certain remanufactured, rebuilt, and/or used motor vehicle parts is
permitted
 Imports of used tires are allowed for retreading purposes only.

 No local content requirement exists
Other Measures:
 Import license is required for importers of vehicles and auto parts.
 Every automobile must come with a technical report verifying it complies with

 U.S-Israel FTA
 OECD
 WTO
JORDAN – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is 0 percent for American made and
10-30% from other countries.
Taxes:
 Sales Tax is 16 percent on all type of vehicles except farming tractors, it is 0 percent.
 Special Tax: Passenger Vehicles 56 percent, Pick Ups 30 percent, Pick Up
(manufactured within the continental USA, Certificate of origin clearly states that it is
manufactured in the USA, shipped from a USA Port and most importantly its rear bed
length is at least 50% or more than its wheel base) 0 percent, Vans 30 percent, Trucks
less than 4.5 tons 30 percent, Trucks more than 4.5 tons 0 percent, Farming tractors 0
percent.
 Income tax: 2 percent for all type of vehicles.
Import tips:
 Imports of used automobiles are allowed with no age limitation; however, personal
vehicles imported cannot be more than ten years old.
 Imports of used spare parts are allowed with no age limitation.
 In order to get the full 15% exemption, vehicles must have engines that have 1600cc
capacity or less, must have 3-point safety driver/passengers seat belts, outside rear view
mirrors, inside rear view mirror, collapsible steering wheel column and a minimum
driver’s airbag.
 Calculations are based on CFR values of vehicle converted to Jordanian Dinar. (JD1 =
$1.41)
 There are also additional fees such as inspection fees by Customs Dept. and
Registration Dept. Furthermore, fees are paid for inspection of vehicles at Aqaba Port.
Total amount of fees does not usually exceed JOD 50.-/vehicle. ($70)
 Imports of used trucks older than three years are not allowed.
 Vehicles tinted windows should not exceed 10%.
 Imports of used tires are not allowed except for retreading purposes.
Other Measures:
 An import license is required for imports of vehicles and auto parts to Jordan.
 Jordan signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the U.S. and now it is fully
implemented.
KUWAIT - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars is a flat five percent on all imported products.
 The tariff applied to trucks is a flat five Percent.
 The tariff for auto parts is five percent.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax is N/A
 Special tax depending on fuel type is N/A
 Luxury tax is N/A
 Special Consumption tax is N/A
 A transfer tax is N/A
 More than five year old vehicles are not allowed to import.
 Imports of remanufactured, rebuilt, and/or used motor vehicle parts are not
authorized.
 The import of automobiles and light trucks (under five tons) over five years old is
prohibited under law no. 147 of December 27, 2000. Only Five Year Old all kind of
vehicles
 Imports of refurbished and right-hand drive vehicles are prohibited.

 Nothing is locally manufactured, so such laws are not applicable in this sector.
Other Measures:
 Importers in Kuwait need an import license to import new/used vehicles. American
made vehicles are imported without any issues, which means US standard are accepted
here in Kuwait.

 Egypt
 India
SAUDI ARABIA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff for radiators, filters and nails is 12 percent, all other spare parts is 5 percent.
Taxes:
 No VAT or other taxes added to sales price.
 Imports of remanufactured, rebuilt, and/or used motor vehicle parts are not authorized.
 The import of automobiles and light trucks (under five tons) over five years old is
prohibited under law since 2005.

 No local content regulations or import restrictions
Other Measures:
 None

 Saudi Arabia signed a Trade Investment Framework Agreement with U.S. in July 2003
 Saudi Arabia joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in December 2005
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars is 5 percent (5% customs duties on value of the vehicle + 1%
insurance + cost of the shipment).
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is 5 percent (custom duty @ 5% on
total CIF value. However, Customs may charge different increased percentages
according to commodities).
Taxes:
 Special tax depending on fuel type – N.A.
 Luxury tax – N.A.
 Special Consumption tax – N.A.
 The vehicle must be in conformity to the State standards and its steering wheel must not
be modified.
 There must be no damages on the vehicle’s outer body. If damage occurs at the arrival
port, a certificate from the competent authorities is required to be submitted
accordingly.
 Vehicles that have been subject to accidents such as drowning, fire, collision, rollover,
etc., are not allowed to be imported.
 Vehicles used as a taxicab or by police are not allowed to be imported.
 The importer's residence authorization (Residency) must be valid if the importer is not a
citizen of any of the GCC States.
 It is permissible to import more than one vehicle per year if the importer does not have
a commercial registration legalizing business activity in vehicle sale and import.
Procedure:
 Submit the required documents including the certificates issued by the traffic
department from the country of export and shipping documents to customs.
 Pay customs duties.
 Customs will view the vehicle in order to ascertain that the value given in the export
declaration is correct. If the value is inconsistent with that of the invoice, one will have
to pay the duties based on the customs estimation.
 After paying the customs duty, one will be given a certificate of registration addressed
to the Traffic & Licensing Department.
 Approach the Traffic & Licensing Department to register the car locally.

All cars and buses entering UAE beginning in model year 2013 will have to abide by safety
regulation imposed by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA),
viz.:
 Head restraints in all seats and air bags for the driver and the front passenger
compulsory for all passenger cars and buses with capacity up to 22 passengers.
 Anti Braking System (ABS) to be installed in all new vehicles as well as safety belts.
 Extra seats in the aisles prohibited for any motor vehicle with a riding capacity of four
people or more.
 Every vehicle should have an alarm to notify when drivers exceed speed limit of 120
km in cars and 100 km on buses.
Other Measures:
Required Documents:
 Original invoice (for new cars).
 Original Certificate of Origin (for new cars).
 Export declaration for the vehicle from the customs department in the country of export.
 Certificate of vehicle export from the traffic department in the country of export.
 Valid vehicle insurance certificate.
 Copy of identification document of the importer or a copy of trade license if the
importer is a business person.

 Gulf Cooperation Council Customs Union
 GCC and Singapore
 GCC and European Free Trade Association (EFTA)
 Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, the Principality of Liechtenstein and New Zealand
Proposed FTA (holding agreement talks):

 Australia
 The European Union
 Japan
 China, India, Pakistan
 Korea
 Group of Mercosur which include Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay.
ASIA, ASEAN AND OCEANIA COUNTRIES SURVEYED:
EAST ASIA
CHINA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

The Government of China has viewed its automotive sector, including the auto parts
industry, as a pillar industry for many years. China continues to be the World’s largest
automobile market in 2014. Auto sales grew at a compound annual rate of nearly 17 percent
between 2003 and 2014, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers. Vehicles can be imported
from the car manufacturers or through parallel importers, which are registered businesses in
Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Tianjin Free Trade Zones.
China plans to increase production of new energy autos and parts by 35 percent annually,
dedicating more than $18 billion in government support to the sector through 2020. If
achieved, China will very likely become the world’s leading producer of electric and hybrid
vehicles and their key components by 2030. The Chinese government’s 12th Five-Year-
Plan (2011-2015) includes specific directives to steer the nation toward energy-efficient
vehicles, specifically New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), as a way to combat petroleum imports
and oil dependency, as well as to build new industrial capacity. The Made in China 2025
Strategy for auto industry targets 1 million in sales of pure electric and plug-in hybrid cars
by 2020, and 3 million in sales by 2025.
The China Compulsory Certificate mark, commonly known as a CCC Mark, is a

compulsory safety mark for many products imported, sold, or used in the Chinese market.
The CCC mark is required for both Chinese manufactured and foreign imported products.
The GB Standard (GB stands for Guobiao, or “National Standard”) is the basis for testing
products that require certification.
Product name HS code GB Standard

Seat belt 8708 GB14166-2003
4011100000
4011200090
4011990090 GB 9744
Tire
4011100000 GB 9743
4011200090
4011990090
Safety glass products 7007-7008, 8708 GB 9656
Headlamp 8512 GB4599-2007
Front position lamp/ rear 8512 GB 4660-2007
position lamp, parking lamp, GB 15235-2007
outline marker lamp, braking GB 11554-1998
lamp GB 18409-2001
GB 17509-1998
Turning-signal lamp 8512 GB 5920-1999
Reversing lamp 8512 GB 18099-2000
GB 18408-2001
Front fog lamp, rear fog lamp 8512
Rear license-plate light 8512
Side-marker lamp 8512

9401201000
9401209000 GB15083-2006
Seat and head restraints 8708995900 GB11550-1995
9401901900 GB13057-2003
8302300000
8708309100
8708309200
8708309400
Brake hose 8708309500 GB16897-1997
8708309600
8708995900
8708309990
Rear-view mirror 7009100000 GB15084-2006
8708299000
Fuel tank GB18296-2001
8708995900
Horn 8512301100 GB15742-2001
Interior trimming material: 4016910000
floor covering, seat shield,
decorating scale boards (inside
door shield/panel, front wall GB8410-2006
inner shield, side wall inner
shield, rear wall inner shield,
roof liner)
Door lock and door hinge 8301-8302 GB 15086-2006
Engines 8702-8705
http://www.cnca.gov.cn/tzgg/ggxx/ggxx2015/201508/t20150805_41254.shtml
China has imposed antidumping and countervailing duties on imports of saloon cars and
cross-country cars (with engine displacement >2.5 liters) from U.S. producers and exporters
at the following rates:
AD Rate CVD Rate
General Motors 8.9% 12.9%
Chrysler Group 8.8% 6.2%
Mercedes-Benz 2.7% 0%
BMW 2.0% 0%
Honda 4.1% 0%
Ford 21.5% 0%
“All others” 21.5% 12.9%
Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to motor vehicles is the MFN rate—25 percent of FOB price
Taxes Levied for Imported Vehicles:

 Consumption tax depends on the engine capacity, and applies to imported vehicles
only.
Engine displacement Consumption tax

Less than 1 liter 1%
1.0 liter < displacement <1.5 liters 3%
1.5 liters < displacement <2.0 liters 5%
Displacement > 4.0 liter 40%
 Purchase tax is 10 percent
The method of basing tax rate on vehicle price shall be adopted for calculating the taxable
amount of vehicle purchase tax. The formula for calculating the taxable amount of vehicle
purchase tax shall be:
Taxable amount = Taxable price × Tax rate
 Vehicles and Vessel Tax (varied on provinces and cities)
Engine Displacement Vehicle and Vessel Tax Vehicle and Vessel Tax
Range (in RMB) Range (in U.S. $)
Exchange rate: 1 U.S. $
= 6.3 RMB
Less than 1 liter 60-360 9.5-57
1 liter < displacement < 1.6 300-540 47.6-85
liters
1.6 liters <displacement < 2.0 360-660 57-104
liters
2.0 liters <displacement <2.5 660-1200 104-190
liters
2.5 liters <displacement <3.0 1200-2400 190-380
liters
3.0 liters <displacement < 4.0 2400-3600 380-571
liters
More than 4.0 liters 3600-5400 571-857
Buses 480-1440 76-228
Trucks 16-120 per ton 2.5-19
Trailers 50% of trucks 1.25-9.5
Motorcycles 36-180 5.7-28.5
 Used vehicle are prohibited to be imported into China
Combined tax rate = tariff (25%) + consumption tax (1% - 40%) + VAT (17%) + Purchase
tax (10%) + Vehicle and Vessel Tax + possible AD/CVD duties
Taxes Levied at the Purchase Stage for Domestic Manufactured Vehicles:
 Purchase Tax is 10 percent
 Vehicles and Vessel Tax
JAPAN - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

A variety of nontariff barriers have traditionally impeded access to Japan’s automotive

market. Overall sales of U.S.-made vehicles and automotive parts in Japan remain low.
The United States has expressed strong concerns with the overall lack of access to Japan’s
automotive market for U.S. automotive companies. Barriers include issues relating to
standards and certification; transparency issues, including the lack of sufficient
opportunities for stakeholder input in the development of standards and regulations; and
barriers that hinder the development of distribution and service networks.
Tariffs:
 Import duties on motor vehicles have been waived indefinitely since 1978.
 No import duties on automobile parts.
Taxes:
 Japan currently levies an 8 percent consumption tax on vehicles. This tax was increased
from 5 percent in April of 2014. The Japanese government is considering raise the
consumption tax to 10 percent on April of 2017.
 In addition to the consumption tax, there is an annual automobile tax, which increases
by engine size, ranging from 29,500 to 111,000 yen. An additional 10% tax is levied on
vehicles used for 13 years (11 years for diesel vehicles) or longer.
 Japan maintains no local content requirements or quantitative restrictions.
 Japan assesses an acquisition tax on the acquisition of an automobile, whether new or
used, based on the purchase price. This tax is 3 percent of the purchase price for private
cars, commercial and mini-vehicles. This acquisition tax will be abolished when the
consumption tax will be raised to 10 percent on April of 2017. (Incentives granted for
eco-friendly cars such as 100% cut, 75% cut or 50% cut. This measure is scheduled to
end on March 31, 2018.)
 Japan also levies tonnage tax according to vehicle weight at each vehicle inspection.
The tonnage tax for passenger cars is 5,000 yen per year for each 0.5 ton of gross
vehicle weight. (Incentives granted for eco-friendly cars such as 100% cut, 75% cut or
50% cut. This measure is scheduled to end on March 31, 2018.) A heavier tax is levied
on vehicles used for 18 years or longer (6,300 yen per 0.5 ton for private passenger
cars).
 These taxes apply to both domestic and imported vehicles.
 The HFCV (Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle) fuel tank parts must meet the Japanese High
Pressure Gas Safety Act standard.
 Regarding noise regulations, acceleration running noise and stationary noise measuring
will be applied on a mandatory basis to a new type of vehicle from 2016 onward and
tire noise measuring will be applied on a mandatory basis to new type of vehicle from
2018 onward.

 ASEAN
 Mexico
 Chile
 Switzerland
 India
 Peru
 Australia
 Mongolia
SOUTH KOREA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

The long-anticipated Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) went into force on
March 15, 2012, becoming our nation’s largest FTA since NAFTA. All three U.S.
automakers ultimately supported the KORUS FTA. Trade in autos and auto parts proved to
be among the most contentious area tackled by U.S. and South Korean negotiation in FTA.
South Korea cut its passenger car tariff to 4 percent upon implementation of the KORUS
FTA and will remove the remaining tariff in four years. For trucks, South Korea dropped
its 10% duty upon implementation.
Tariffs:
KORUS FTA results immediate reduction (from eight percent to four percent) and eventual
elimination of Korean tariffs on passenger cars effective from January 2016 of the FTA’s
implementation.
 Car Tariff Elimination: Under the 2012 KORUS FTA agreement, duties on
imported passenger cars are immediately reduced to four percent ad valorem on the
date the KORUS enters into force. This will be maintained for 4 years and the tariff
will be completely eliminated four years after the implementation of the KORUS
FTA starting from January 2016.
 Truck Tariff Elimination: Under the 2012 KORUS FTA agreement, duties on
trucks is reduced to 0 percent,
 Tariff on Electric Vehicles: Under the 2012 KORUS FTA agreement, duties were
immediately reduced to four percent upon implementation of the KORUS FTA it
will be completely eliminated after the four years of FTA implementation from
January 2016.
Taxes (as of 2015):
 The taxes described below are calculated cumulatively, but several are applied as
percentages of other automotive taxes. The tax described below covered general
application mainly to passenger cars due to the complexity of the multiple tax
categories and rates and the methodology for calculating tax rates on various values
of the vehicle.
Taxes Levied at the Purchase Stage:
 At the purchase stage, the following two taxes are levied: 1) a 5 percent (a 3.5 %
until the end of 2015 temporarily) individual consumption tax (a percentage of the
C.I.F. value of the vehicle plus duty, and 2) a 10 percent value added tax (VAT),
calculated on the vehicle value inclusive of the individual consumption tax.
(Source: Individual Consumption Tax Div., Property & Consumption Tax Bureau,
Ministry of Strategy & Finance)
Taxes Levied at the Registration Stage:
 At the registration stage, the Korean Government levies the following two taxes:
1) acquisition tax (7 percent of the retail price before VAT – the Korean
Government merged the former registration tax and acquisition tax into one), 2)
subway bond (based on engine displacement).
(Source: Local Tax Management Div., Local Tax Policy Bureau,

Ministry of Administration & Home Affairs)
 The subway bond is another tax based on engine displacement. The engine
displacement categories and rates are calculated as a percentage of the retail price as
follows:
Below 1,000cc 0 percent

Over 1,000 cc and below1,500 cc 9 percent
Over 1,500 cc and below 2,000 cc 12 percent
2,000 cc and over 20 percent
Multi purpose vehicle 5 percent
7-10 passenger vehicle W390,000
(Source: Public Enterprise Division, Local Tax Policy Bureau,

Ministry of Government Administration & Home Affairs)
Taxes Levied at the Ownership Stage:
 The Korean Government also assesses two taxes at the ownership stage: 1) annual
vehicle tax (based on engine size), 2) annual vehicle education tax (30 percent of
the annual vehicle tax).
 The annual vehicle tax is based on engine displacement with the following rates:
1,000 cc and below 80 Won/cc

1,600 cc and below 140 Won/cc
Over 1,600 cc 200 Won/cc
(Source: Local Tax Management Division, Local Tax Policy Bureau,

Ministry of Government Administration and Home Affairs)
Despite having a KORUS FTA in place for three years by 2015, U.S. automotive exports
continue to face a lack of stability and predictability in the Korean automotive policy
environment. The U.S. automotive industry raised concerns that the benefits anticipated
from the free trade agreement have not fully materialized.
There are still standards that are unique only to Korea and are inconsistent with the global
norms adopted by leading economies.
Technical barriers to trade (TBT) that U.S. auto industry currently concerns include:
 2020 CAFÉ/CO2 Standard

 End of Life Vehicle (Extended Producers Responsibility)
 Right to Repair – Proposed diagnostic tool regulation
 New Emission Standard for Gasoline/LPG for 2016 and beyond
 Damage Disclosure Requirement
 Regulations on the Self-Certification of Motor Vehicle and Parts
Seat Size and Seat Clearance, Ground Clearance
SOUTH/SOUTHWEST ASIA
INDIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

The automotive industry of India is categorized into passenger cars, two wheelers,
commercial vehicles and three wheelers, with two wheelers dominating the market. More
than 81% of the vehicles sold are two wheelers. Nearly 70% of these two wheelers sold
were motorcycles and about 21% were scooters. Mopeds occupy a small portion in the two
wheeler market; however, electric two wheelers are yet to penetrate.
Duties and Taxes:
 Customs Duty: In India, the basic law for levy and collection of customs duty is
Customs Act 1962. It provides for levy and collection of duty on imports and exports,
import/export procedures, prohibitions on importation and exportation of goods,
penalties, offences, etc.
The basic tariff applied to cars is 60 percent. (Overall duty is 125 percent)
The basic tariff applied to trucks is 20 percent.
The basic tariff for auto parts (Chapter 84 and 87) is 10 percent.
For a detailed schedule of the customs duty, please click here:
http://www.cbec.gov.in/htdocs-cbec/customs/cs-tariff2015-16/cst2015-16-idx
 Value Added Tax (VAT): It differs from state to state and some states have implemented
14.5%
 Special Tax depending on fuel type is $.09 per liter.
www.allindiantaxes.com
 Excise Duty: Central Excise duty is an indirect tax levied on those automobiles
which are manufactured in India and are meant for home consumption. The taxable
event is 'manufacture' and the liability of central excise duty arises as soon as the
automobiles are manufactured. It is a tax on manufacturing, which is paid by a
manufacturer, who passes its incidence on to the customers.
 Basic Excise Duty: 10% This is the duty charged under section 3 of the Central
Excises and Salt Act, 1944 on all excisable goods other than salt which are
produced or manufactured in India. Basic Excise Duty (also known as Central
Value Added Tax (CENVAT) is levied at the rates specified in the Central Excise
Tariff Act.
 Special Excise Duty (SED): As per the section 37 of the Finance Act, 1978 Special
excise Duty was attracted on all excisable goods on which there is a levy of Basic
excise Duty under the Central Excises and Salt Act, 1944. Special Excise Duty is
levied at the rates specified in the Second Schedule to Central Excise Tariff Act,
1985.
 Education Cess on Education Duty: Section 93 of Finance (No.2) Act, 2004 states
that education cess is “duty of excise”, to be calculated on aggregate of all duties of
excise including special excise duty or any other duty of excise, but excluding
education cess on excisable goods.
 Excise Duty in case of clearances by EOU: The EOU units are expected to export
all their production. However, if they clear their final product in DTA (domestic
tariff area), the rate of excise duty will be equal to customs duty on like article if
imported in India.
 Additional Customs Duty commonly known as Countervailing Duty (CVD):

12% This is the duty leviable under second schedule to the Central Excise Tariff
Act, 1985 at the rates mentioned in the schedule. At present this is leviable on very
few items.
 Special CVD: 4% National Calamity Contingent Duty (NCCD): Normally

known as NCCD. This duty is levied as per section 136 of the Finance Act, 2001, as
a surcharge on specified goods.
 Excise Duties and Cesses leviable under Miscellaneous Act: On certain specified
goods, in addition to the aforesaid duties, prescribed rate of excise duty and cess is
also leviable.
For a detailed schedule of the excise duty, please click here:

http://www.cbec.gov.in/htdocs-cbec/excise/cxt2015-16/cxt-1516-idx?pageID=3-
3
 Import of remanufactured, rebuilt, and/or used motor vehicle parts are not permitted.
 Left – hand drive vehicles cannot be imported.
 New vehicles may only be imported from the country of manufacture. The import of
new vehicles shall be permitted only through the Customs port at Nhava Sheva
(Mumbai), Calcutta and Chennai.
 Used vehicle can only be imported through the Customs Port at Mumbai. The second
hand or used vehicles imported into India should have a minimum roadworthiness for a
period of 5 years from the date of importation into India with assurance for providing
service facilities within the country during the five year period. For this purpose, the
importer shall, at the time of importation, submit a declaration indicating the period of
roadworthiness in respect of every individual vehicle being imported, supported by a
certificate issued by any of the testing agencies, which the Central Government may
notify in this regard.
 The used vehicle has to be submitted for testing to Vehicle Research and Development
Establishment (VRDE), Ahmednagar, of the Ministry of Defence or the Automotive
Research Association of India, Pune or the Central Farm and Machinery Training and
Testing Institute, Budni, Madhya Pradesh, and such other agencies as may be specified
by the Central Government, for granting a certificate by that agency as to the
compliance of the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and any rules made
thereunder.
Emission norms:
 In tune with international standards to reduce vehicular pollution, the central
government unveiled the standards titled 'India 2000' in 2000 with later upgraded
guidelines as 'Bharat Stage'. These standards are quite similar to the more stringent
European standards and have been traditionally implemented in a phased manner, with
the latest upgrade getting implemented in 13 cities and later, in the rest of the nation.
Delhi (NCR), Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Pune,
Surat, Kanpur, Lucknow, Solapur, Jamshedpur and Agra are the 13 cities where Bharat
Stage IV has been imposed while the rest of the nation is still under Bharat Stage III.
The government is looking to implement Bharat Stage V for the entire country in the
year 2017.
Fuel Specification:
 The Fuel Quality plays a very important role in meeting the stringent emission
regulation. The fuel specifications of Gasoline and Diesel have been aligned with the
corresponding European Fuel Specifications for meeting the Euro II, Euro III and Euro
IV emission norms. The use of alternative fuels has been promoted in India both for
energy security and emission reduction. Delhi and Mumbai have more than 100,000
commercial vehicles running on CNG fuel. India is planning to introduce Biodiesel;
Ethanol Gasoline blends in a phased manner and has drawn up a road map for the same.
The Indian auto industry is working with the authorities to facilitate the introduction of
alternative fuels. India has also setup a task force for preparing the Hydrogen road map.
The use of LPG has also been introduced as an auto fuel and the oil industry has drawn
up plans for the establishment of Auto LPG dispensing station in major cities.

 Japan
 Korea
 ASEAN
 PTA with SAARC Nations
 Malaysia
 Thailand
 India-EU BTIA
 Canada
 Australia
 New Zealand
Other agreements can be found at www.commerce.nic.in or www.indiantradeportal.in
NEPAL
 An import license is required.

 The import duty is levied at around 94 percent on public carriers and around 117
percent on mini-buses (customs duty of 25 percent on public carriers and 40 percent on
mini-buses, 32 percent excise duty on the gross of Invoice Value + Customs Duty, 1.5
percent local development tax on invoice value, 5 percent special tax on invoice value,
and 13 percent value added tax (VAT) on the gross of invoice value + additional duties
and taxes).
 The import duty on other vehicles is around 176 percent (80 percent customs duty, and
additional duty and taxes as applicable on mini-buses and public carriers).
PAKISTAN - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Pakistan - Customs Duties and Taxes on Motor Vehicles
Customs Duties
Following is the schedule of customs duties, assessed on the C&F value of new vehicle
imports:
Passenger Cars: Type Customs Duty
Up to 800 cc 50%
801cc-1000cc 55%
1001cc-1500cc 60%
1501cc-1800cc 75%
1801cc and above 90%
According to Business Monitor International, for commercial vehicles, “The general tariff
regime in Pakistan is 20% on CKD buses and trucks; and 60% on compressed natural gas
(CNG) trucks and 20% on CBUs for buses.” In addition, CKD-kit bus imports have been
exempted from customs duty.
Taxes
 A 15% General Sales Tax (a VAT tax), is assessed on all motor vehicles (personal,
commercial, CKDs, and CBUs.
.
Other Measures
Vehicles as Personal Gifts and Baggage:

 Pakistan permits the importation of motor vehicles as a personal gift, or as personal
baggage accompanying a returning Pakistani after a residence abroad. Siblings are
also now covered under the gifting scheme. The schedule of duties is listed in
Appendix G of the Import Trade and Procedure Order, 2002-2003
(www.paksearch.com).
Exemption from Customs Duties:

 The Government of Pakistan exempts custom duty on the import of certain
categories of motor vehicles by diplomats, tour operators/travel agents and
privileged organization/offices/agencies as defined under Customs Rules and
Procedures 2002-2003 (www.paksearch.com).
Prohibited Import Items:

 HS Code Description
8710.0000 Tanks and other armored fighting vehicles, motorized, whether or

not fitted with weapons, and parts of such vehicles.
Investment Measures:
 On a case-by-case basis, with the permission of the Government of Pakistan,
organizations engaged in infrastructure projects such as petroleum, gas, refinery, CNG,
LPG, energy conservation, environment and safety control are exempt from duties and
taxes on vehicles not manufactured locally.
Local Content Requirements:

 Pakistani companies, which manufacture automobiles, must comply with local content
requirements. Within a specified time period the Pakistani plant must adhere to a
specific local content ratio on the production line. The local content requirements vary
for different types of vehicles and are determined by the Engineering Development
Board of Pakistan (EDB). Further information may be obtained on EDB’s website:
http://www.engineeringindustry.info.
Safety and Emissions Standards and Certification Procedures:

 Pakistan does not have regulations concerning automobile safety and emissions
standards and certification procedures. All U.S. and European vehicle specifications
are accepted.

 Malaysia
 China
 Sri Lanka
 WTO
ASEAN
Ten countries currently form the membership of the Association of South East Asian
Nations (ASEAN). These countries include Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia,
Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
These countries belong to the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA), under which all internal
tariffs on manufactured products have been lowered to 0-5 percent, as applied by the
common effective preferential tariff (CEPT). The less developed countries of Vietnam,
Laos, Burma and Cambodia have longer phase in periods (Vietnam in 2006, Laos and
Burma in 2008, and Cambodia in 2010).
The main trade scheme in ASEAN that has an impact on automotive trade within the region
is the AICO (ASEAN Industrial Cooperation). Under the AICO scheme, approved
companies are eligible to benefit immediately from the AFTA 0-5 percent preferential tariff
rate, for trade in approved items. In the automotive sector this applies to completed
vehicles, parts, half-finished goods and materials. In order to qualify, products must have
40 percent ASEAN content and demonstrate resource sharing between participating
companies. In addition, ASEAN members are required to abolish the localization schemes
in each country as well as the import tariff exemptions and local capital requirements.
INDONESIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 Tariffs on Completely Built-up (CBU) passenger vehicles range from 65, 70 and 80
percent depending on engine displacement.
 A 45 percent tariff is applied to CBU Commercial vehicles.
 CBU Pickup trucks and buses tariff rates range from 5, 40, 45 percent depending on
engine size.
 Tariffs on non-passenger car kits are a uniform 25 percent.
 Tariffs on auto components and parts imported for local assembly of passenger cars
and minivans are a uniform rate of 15 percent.
Taxes:
 In addition to the duty and luxury tax, Indonesia applies a 10 percent Value Added
Tax (VAT).
 Luxury Tax Chart inserted below for applied
PP 41/2005 dated 25 Oct 2005
Category Engine Size Luxury Tax

Old (%) New (%)
Sedan cc < 1.5 30 30

1.5 < cc < 3.0 (P) 2.5 (D) 40 50
cc > 3.0 (P) 2.5 (D) 75 75
MPV (4x2) cc < 1.5 10 10

1.5 < cc < 2.5 20 25
2.5 < cc < 3.0 (P) 40 50
cc > 3.0 (P) 2.5 (D) 75 75
SUV (4x4) cc < 1.5 30 30

1.5 < cc < 3.0 (P) 2.5 (D) 40 50
cc > 3.0 (P) 2.5 (D) 75 75
Commercial GVW 0.5 tons (P/D) all cc 20 25

Double Cabin
4x2 and 4x4
rates:
Note:
CBU (Completely Built Up)
CKD (Completely Knocked Down)
Lt (Liter)
Import Bans and Quotas:

Used vehicles and automotive parts imports are prohibited.
MALAYSIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The import tax for classification for auto parts under

o HTS 8407 ranges from 5% to 30% import rate and 6% sales tax
o HTS 8408 0% import rate and 6% sales tax
o HTS 8708 ranges from 5% to 30% import rate and 6% sales tax
Taxes:
DUTIES & TAXES ON MOTOR VEHICLES
A. MOTOR CARS (INCLUDING STATION WAGAON, SPORTS CARS AND RACING CARS)
IMPORT DUTY LOCAL TAXES
ENGINE CAPACITY
CBU CKD CBU CKD
(cc)
MFN ATIGA MFN ATIGA MFN ATIGA
< 1,800 30% 0% 10% 0% 75% 10%

1,800 - 1,999 30% 0% 10% 0% 80% 10%
2,000 - 2,499 30% 0% 10% 0% 90% 10%
Above 2,500 30% 0% 10% 0% 105% 10%
B) Four Wheel Drive Vehicles
B. FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES

ENGINE CAPACITY
CBU CKD CBU CKD
(cc)
< 1,800 30% 0% 10% 0% 65% 10%

1,800 - 1,999 30% 0% 10% 0% 75% 10%
2,000 - 2,499 30% 0% 10% 0% 90% 10%
Above 2,500 30% 0% 10% 0% 105% 10%
C. OTHERS (MPV & VAN)

ENGINE CAPACITY
CBU CKD CBU CKD
(cc)
< 1,500 30% 0% NIL 0% 60% 10%

1,500 - 1,799 30% 0% 10% 0% 65% 10%
1,800 - 1,999 30% 0% 10% 0% 75% 10%
2,000 - 2,499 30% 0% 10% 0% 90% 10%
Above 2,500 30% 0% 10% 0% 105% 10%
D. COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
ENGINE CAPACITY
CBU CKD CBU CKD
(cc)
All 30% 0% NIL 0% NIL 10%
NOTE
MFN = Most Favored Nation
ATIGA = ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement
CBU = Complete Built Up
CKD = Complete Knock Down
Cc = cubic centimeter
Other Taxes
Excise Taxes on passenger cars are assessed based on a graduated schedule i.e.
VALUE PERCENTAGE
First RM7,000.00 25%

Next RM3,000 30%
Next RM3,000 35%
Next RM7,000 50%
Next RM5,000 60%
Balance 65%
TYPE OF VEHICLE CATEGORY EXCISE TAX
MPV & 4WD 45%

VANS 30%
COMMERCIAL VEHICLES 0
Goods and Service Tax at 6%
Approved Permits (AP), issued by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI)
acts as a control mechanism limiting the number of cars imported into Malaysia. It was
gazetted based on the Malaysian Customs Act 1967, in 1983 as a measure to protect the
National Car – PROTON and later PERODUA. PROTON is a joint venture with
Mitsubishi while PERODUA is with Daihatsu.
There are two types of AP:
1. Franchise AP - that are given out for free to franchise holders of car brands
registered with MITI.
2. Open AP – that are sold to parallel importers of cars for resale in the Malaysian
market
The total annual number of APs issued is usually capped at ten percent of the number of
locally assembled cars of the previous year. The allocations of these APs are usually in the
ratio of
- 60 percent to Bumiputera for Open AP holders

- 40 percent to franchise holders
However, the end of the APs in 2010 were repealed based on objections from stakeholders
of vested parties and these were extended to
1. 31st December 2015 for Open APs for used vehicles (commercial, passengers and
motorcycles)
2. 31st December 2020 for Franchise APs
There was a commitment by the Government of Malaysia under the ASEAN and WTO
obligation, to remove and/or reduce import duties for automotive products. These import
duties are being progressively being revised and reduce in line with the eventual
liberalization of the market.
Another impediment for US made vehicles is the left-hand drive mechanism. Malaysia is a
right-hand drive following the British standards.
Currently, local content requirements are 30% - 45% for non-national cars and about 80%
for national cars, and the local content requirements for non-PROTON assemblers include
30 mandatory items.
Cars imported from the ASEAN member countries such as Thailand and Indonesia are
subject to the least import duties, whereas those from other regions such as Europe and
America are paying higher.
 ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (AFTA)

 World Trade Organization (WTO)
 Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
PHILIPPINES - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Below is the latest information on motor vehicle import requirements for the Philippines.
This information is from the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI) and several other
industry sources.
Tariff:
Table 2 illustrates CBU tariff on under specific ASEAN Harmonized Tariff Nomenclature
(AHTN) codes.
Note: The AHTN is an 8-digit commodity nomenclature adopted by the ten ASEAN member
countries on January 1, 2002. It is based on the Harmonized System (HS) and involves the
alignment of the national tariff nomenclature of each member country with the AHTN.
Table 2: CBU Tariff
AHTN
heading Tariff Description Tariff Based On
87.02 15% to Motor vehicles for the transport of ten Passenger capacity and gross
20% or more persons vehicle weight (GVW)
87.03 30% Cars and other motor vehicles Engine displacement
principally designed for the transport
of persons
87.04 20% to Motor vehicles designed for the Gross vehicle weight
30% transport of goods (GVW)
87.11 30% Motorcycles Engine displacement
Source: Board of Investments (BOI), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
The tariff rate for the assembly of motor vehicles falling under AHTN heading nos. 87.02,
87.03, 87.04 and 87.11 is from 0% to 1%. It is dependent on the type of engine used.
Table 3 illustrates the difference on tariff for the assembly of alternative fuel vehicles (0%)
and the conventional vehicles (i.e., gasoline/diesel engines) with 1%.
Table 3: CKD/ KD Tariff

AHTN heading Description Tariff
87.02, 87.03, 87.04 Components, parts and/or accessories imported from one or 0%
and 87.11 more countries for assembly of vehicles by participants in the
Motor Vehicle Development Program (MVDP) with certificate
from the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI) for the
assembly of hybrid (electric and gasoline/diesel), electric, flex-
fuel (bio-ethanol and bio-diesel) and compressed natural gas
(CNG) vehicles.
87.02, 87.03, 87.04 Components, parts and/or accessories imported from one or 1%
and 87.11 more countries for assembly of vehicles by participants in the
MVDP with a certificate from the BOI.
Source: Board of Investments (BOI), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
Taxes:
 A 12 percent VAT is assessed on the domestic sale of all goods, including motor
vehicles and automotive parts and components.
 Excise taxes on motor vehicles are assessed and levied based on the net
manufacturer/importer’s selling price. Table 4 shows the corresponding excise tax
levied on motor vehicles.
 Commercial vehicles, except for pick-up trucks, 4X4 vans and Asian Utility Vehicles
(AUVs), are not subject to the excise tax.
Table 4: Excise Tax Rates
Net Manufacturer's Price / Importer's Excise Tax

Selling Price
Up to Philippine Peso (PhP) 600 2%
Thousand (approx US$14,285)
Over PhP600 Thousand to PhP1.1 PhP12,000 (approx US$285) + 20%
Million (approx US$14,285 to of value in excess of PhP600
US$26,190) Thousand
Over PhP1.1 Million to PhP2.1 Million PhP112,000 (approx US$2,267) +
(approx US$26,190 to US$50,000) 40% of value in excess of PhP1.1
Million
Over PhP2.1 Million PhP512,000 (approx US$12,190) +
60% of value excess of PhP2.1
Million
Notes: Exchange Rate used: US$1 = PhP42.00 / Source: Republic ACT (RA) 9224
Section 3 of Executive Order 156 indicates that:
The importation into the country of all types of used motor vehicles is prohibited, except
for the following:
 A vehicle that is owned and for the personal use of a returning resident or
immigrant and covered by an authority to import issued under the No-Dollar
Importation Program. Such vehicles cannot be resold for at least three (3) years;
 A vehicle for the use of an official of the Diplomatic Corps and authorized to be
imported by the Department of Foreign Affairs;
 Trucks, excluding pick-up trucks:
1. With GVW of 2.5 – 6.0 tons covered by an authority to import issued by the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
2. With GVW above 6.0 tons.
 Buses:
1. With GVW of 6-12 tons covered by an authority to import issued by DTI.
2. With GVW above 12 tons.
 Special purpose vehicles, namely; fire trucks, ambulances, funeral hearses/coaches,
crane lorries, tractor heads or truck tractors, boom trucks, tanker trucks, tank lorries
with high pressure spray gun, reefers or refrigerated trucks, mobile drilling derricks,
transit/concrete mixers, mobile radiological units, wreckers or tow trucks, concrete
pump trucks, aerial/bucker flat-form trucks, street sweepers, vacuum trucks,
garbage compactors, self loader trucks, man lift trucks, lighting trucks, trucks
mounted with special purpose equipment, all other types of vehicles designed for a
specific use.
Other Measures:
The importation of used trucks, buses, and special purpose vehicles is regulated and
monitored by the DTI. It requires an import license from the Bureau of Import Services
(BIS), DTI.
Membership in Trade and Economic Agreements:

 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Free Trade Area
(AFTA)
 Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA)
 Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) with the U.S.
SINGAPORE - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 Singapore does not apply any tariffs to vehicles or components.
Taxes:
 The excise tax on all vehicles is 20% of Open Market Value (OMV)
 Registration fee (RF): S$140 (Sing dollars)
Additional Registration Fee (ARF) is based on Open Market Value (OMV). For
example:
The ARF payable for a car with an OMV of S$75,000 will be calculated as follows:
Vehicle OMV
ARF Rate ARF Payable
(S$75,000)
100% x S$20,000 =
First S$20,000 100%
S$20,000
140% x S$30,000 =
Next S$30,000 140%
S$42,000
180% x S$25,000 =
Above S$50,000 180%
S$45,000
Total ARF payable is (S$20,000 + S$42,000 + S$45,000) = S$107,000
 Road Tax – Singapore levies a road tax on vehicles, which is based on engine
displacement. There are five categories for this tax: less than or equal to 600cc,
601-1000cc, 1001-1600cc, 1601-3000cc and above 3000cc. Tax is determined by a
graduated formula, with larger engine sizes charged a higher tax rate (for additional
details, see the Singapore Land Transport Authority’s web page at
http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/roads-and-motoring/owning-a-
vehicle/costs-of-owning-a-vehicle/tax-structure-for-cars.html
 Special Tax – A petrol duty is imposed to encourage fuel conservation and

discourage excessive use of vehicles that may contribute to congestion and
pollution. However, there is currently no equivalent duty imposed on diesel.
Hence, a Special Tax is levied on diesel vehicles to make up for the absence of a
fuel duty. The Special Tax is payable in addition to the Road Tax of the vehicle.
The quantum of the Special Tax for diesel cars takes into account the higher
particulate matter (PM) emissions of diesel vehicles. The Special Tax for a non-
Euro IV compliant diesel car is 6 times its Road Tax. In recognition of improved
emission standards of Euro-IV diesel cars, the Special Tax rate for these diesel cars
was reduced from four times the road tax to $1.25 per cc with effect from 1 July
2008. The Special Tax structure seeks to narrow the difference in the cost of fuel
consumption (including petrol duty) between a Euro-IV diesel car and a petrol car.
All imported motor vehicles into Singapore must be registered with LTA (Land Transport
Authority) before they can be driven on the public roads.
Brand New Vehicles:
Vehicle will be classified as brand new at registration if:

• it was imported into Singapore directly from the vehicle manufacturer; or
• it was registered as a new vehicle in a foreign country which adopts a higher or
equivalent safety and emission standard as Singapore such as the European
Community (EC) countries. The vehicle must be de-registered within 14 days of its
registration in the foreign country for export to Singapore, and must arrive in
Singapore within 3 months of its de-registration overseas.
Imported Used Vehicles:

Only imported used vehicles that are less than 3 years of age can be registered in
Singapore.
A surcharge of S$10,000 is payable on top of the Quota Premium (for a Certificate of
Entitlement) and registration taxes and fees at registration.
The age of a used vehicle is determined by the date the vehicle was first registered in a
foreign country.
If the first registration date of the vehicle cannot be ascertained, then the age of the vehicle
will be determined by the first day of its manufacture.
Right-hand Drive
Only right-hand drive cars are allowed to be registered for use in Singapore.*Examples
include
Procedures on importation and registration of a car in Singapore are available at:

http://www.onemotoring.com.sg/publish/onemotoring/en/lta_information_guidelines/b
uy_a_new_vehicle/self_importation_.MainPar.22837.File.tmp/Car.pdf

 There are no local content requirements in Singapore.
Other Measures:
Fuel Economy Labeling Scheme (FELS)
The LTA will continue to:

 Subject only imported new/used cars and Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) to FELS
requirements. [LGVs refers to vehicles with a maximum laden weight not exceeding
3,500 kg ]
 Accept test reports from LTA/NEA (National Environment Agency) recognized test
laboratories that comply with test cycle specified in the United Nations Economic
Commission for Europe (UNECE) Regulation 101 as well as fuel consumption and
CO2 emissions data contained in the vehicle Certificate of Conformity (COC); and
 Exempt cars and LGVs imported by Parallel Importers from the 3,000km vehicle
run-in requirement for testing at the VICOM Emission Test Laboratory (VETL).
The revised requirements are as follows:
 Vehicle Testing Laboratories' Requirements

Approved independent test laboratories1 must be accredited by their national
accreditation body to conduct emission tests in accordance with the United Nations
Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Regulation 101. The national
accreditation bodies must be signatories to either the International Laboratory
Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) or Asia Pacific Laboratory Accreditation
Cooperation (APLAC).
Vehicle manufacturers' in-house test laboratories must be supervised by a qualified

Technical Service (e.g. approval authority, TUV, Vehicle Certification Agency,
etc.) to ensure that the tests facilities and measurement devices comply with the
requirements of ISO 170252 (Competence of testing and calibration laboratories)
and the tests are carried out in accordance with the UNECE Regulation 101.
 Imported Used Cars/Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs)

Every imported used car/LGVs must be tested at any LTA/NEA-recognized vehicle
testing laboratory to capture the FELS data based on their current conditions and
mileages at import.
 Verification Checks
LTA may request any imported cars/LGVs to undergo a verification test at VICOM
Emission Test Laboratory (VETL) to ensure accuracy of the CO2 emission data
even if test reports from LTA/ NEA-recognized vehicle testing laboratories or
Conformity of Certificate (COC) are submitted. Cost of the verification test will be
borne by LTA. In addition, LTA will conduct regular audit checks on the accuracy
and proper display of FELS label at car showrooms.
1
Independent test laboratories do not manufacture vehicles and the nature of their business
is to provide test services on vehicle inspections and other vehicle related accessories, parts
or products for wide base customers
2
ISO 17025 is the quality management system used by laboratories for improving their
ability to consistently produce valid results. It is also the basis for accreditation from a
national accreditation body.

Since the signing of its first FTA under the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) in 1993,
Singapore's network of FTAs has expanded to cover 20 regional and bilateral FTAs with 31
trading partners. Among them are:
 US-Singapore Free Trade Agreement

 ASEAN Free Trade Area
 ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand FTA (AANZFTA)
 ASEAN-Japan (AJCEP)
 ASEAN-Korea (AKFTA)
 Singapore-China (SCRFTA)
 Singapore-GCC (GSFTA)
The full list of Singapore FTA partners is available at http://www.fta.gov.sg/sg_fta.asp
THAILAND - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
Taxes:
 Municipal Tax is 10 percent
 Excise Tax based on carbon dioxide emission, range from 10 percent to 50 percent,
starting January 1, 2016
 Imports of used automobiles are not allowed under any circumstances
 Imports of buses with 30 seats or more are not allowed
Other Measures:
 AFTA – ASEAN Free Trade Agreement
 ACFTA – ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement
 JTEPA – Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement
 TAFTA – Trans-Atlantic Free Trade Agreement
 TIFTA – Thai-India Free Trade Agreement
 WTO – World Trade Organization
VIETNAM - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Taxes:
 The Special Consumption Tax (SCT) for vehicles is 50% percent for vehicles with five
seats or less, 30% for those with 6 to 15 seats, and 15 % for those with 16 to less than
24 seats.
 The SCT for both Completely Knocked-down vehicles (CKD) and Completely Build-
up vehicles (CBU) are harmonized (effective January 1, 2004).
 The provision on SCT reduction for local auto assembler has been eliminated.
 The Value Added Tax (VAT) is 5% for all vehicles
Tariffs:
 CBU MFN rate is 70 percent for all vehicles
 CKD ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) Common Effective Preferential Tariff (CEPT)
rates are 0 or 5%, going to 0% by 2012 for all vehicles.
 CBU passenger cars are still on the GE list. The latest proposal of CEPT Roadmap to
reduce AFTA rates for CBU passenger cars which is approved by the Prime Minister is:
 CBU vehicles with 10 to 30 seats: 20% (2007) and 5% (2009)
 CBU vehicles under 10 seats 20% (2008) and 5% (2010).
 CKD MFN rates, scheduled to increase 5 to 10 points per year, appear to be holding at
25 percent and rising for passenger cars and PPV and 15 percent and rising for
minivans/bus, pickups, and trucks equal or less than 5 tons
 MFN rate for all used autos and trucks not exceeding 5 tons is 150%
Prohibitions:
 Beginning in 1998, Vietnam has a prohibition on the importation of used passenger
vehicles. The ban should be phased out by April 2006.
OCEANIA
AUSTRALIA- Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Motor vehicle trade between the United States and Australia is bound by the terms of the
U.S./Australia Free Trade Agreement, which went into effect on January 1, 2005. The
agreement can be found on the web at:
http://www.ustr.gov/Trade_Agreements/Bilateral/Australia_FTA/Section_Index.html
The automotive terms are outlined below. The terms for goods not qualifying under the
agreement are also described in a following section.
Tariffs under the FTA:
For those motor vehicles that meet the necessary rule of origin to qualify for preferential
treatment under the FTA, the following tariff rates apply:
 Australian tariffs on U.S. vehicles in the light truck passenger segment – including
four-wheel drive, SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks – were eliminated
immediately on implementation. This includes the vast majority of U.S. vehicle
exports to Australia.
 Australian tariffs on imported U.S.-built passenger cars were reduced from 15% to
8% on implementation, and were phased down on a linear basis to 0% in 2010.
Rule of Origin under the FTA:
Details of the Rules of Origin can be found at the Australian Customs Website:
http://www.customs.gov.au/webdata/resources/notices/ACN04039.pdf
 The agreement uses the “net cost” method of calculating origin, which does not
include most post-production costs, such as sales promotion, marketing, after sales
service costs, royalties, shipping and packing costs, and non-allowable interest
costs. The Agreement sets a minimum “net cost” regional value content of 50% for
automotive products, (sourced from the United States and Australia) in order to
enjoy duty-free treatment.
Used cars under the FTA:
 To ensure that the agreement is not used to allow third-party used cars to be
transshipped through either party, in addition to meeting the automotive rule of
origin, passenger vehicles will be required to pass a ‘change in tariff classification’
test – which ensures that the vehicle underwent manufacturing processes one of the
two parties.
 All used vehicles must also obtain quarantine clearance from the Department of
Agriculture and Water Resources after the vehicle has arrived at the port of entry.
This is to prevent the entry of diseases, noxious weeds and insect pests into
Australia. Quarantine authorities inspect all vehicles on arrival and may require
them to be properly cleaned. This is usually done by steam cleaning. All exporters
should remove all soil and any other matter from the vehicle (including the
underside) prior to exportation to Australia. For more information go to:
http://www.agriculture.gov.au/import/vehicles-machinery/motor-vehicles
For vehicles not meeting the rule of origin under the FTA, the following terms apply:
The Australian government maintains web pages regarding motor vehicle import
procedures and requirements. The main link can be found at:
https://infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/imports/
The following summarizes significant aspects of Australia’s regulations and requirements.
Tariffs/Taxes:
 New and used passenger motor vehicles, campervans/mobile homes, and their
components are presently subject to a five percent customs duty. A GST of 10 percent
applies.
 Used passenger vehicles more than 30 years old are exempt from customs duties but
GST of 10 percent is levied.
 There is a five percent duty and 10 percent GST on 4X4 offroad and commercial
vehicles
 There is a five percent duty and 10 percent GST on vehicles up to 30 years old.
 Import duty is collected on the vehicle’s “customs” value as determined by Australian
Customs Service (ACS). Generally, ACS includes all arms-length expenditures to
acquire ownership/title to the vehicle in a foreign country. However, international
shipping and related insurance costs are not included. Alternative valuation methods
may be employed at the discretion of ACS.
Taxes:
 A 10 percent federal goods and service tax (GST) is levied on the assessed value of all
imported new and used vehicles, inclusive both of applicable customs duties and
international freight and insurance charges.
 A luxury car tax is levied at a rate of 33% on all vehicles, except motorbikes, and some
commercial vehicles with a current GST inclusive value in excess of AU$63,184. LCT
is payable on the amount in excess of a GST inclusive figure. The LCT threshold for
fuel efficient vehicles is AU$75,375.
 Note: Australian-assembled vehicles are also subject to the GST and LCT, but have no
Customs duty included in their taxable basis.
Other Measures:
Prior Approval:
 Importers must submit a formal request for “Import Approval” to the Department of
Transport’s Vehicle Safety Standards Branch prior to a vehicle’s entry into Australian
territory. Payment of $50 Australian fee must accompany each application, which may
include multiple vehicles of the same model.
https://infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/imports/online_form.aspx
Duty Wavier:
 Until 2005, local vehicle assemblers could claim an import duty credit equal to 25
percent of the value of their production of motor vehicles, engines and engine
components, multiplied by the relevant tariff rate, plus 10 percent of the value of new
investment in plant and equipment. Local component producers could claim a credit
equal to 25 percent of the value of their investment in plant and equipment and of 45
percent of the value of investment in R&D. The total value any firm may claim in any
year was limited to 5 percent of its total local sales. The credits could be applied by the
firm--or traded to other importers--as payment of customs duty on vehicles or
components they import. This program is to be reduced beginning in 2006 and
terminated in 2015.
Vehicle Safety and Emissions Requirements:

 All imported vehicles must be modified to comply with Australian Design Rules
(ADRs) regarding safety, emissions and anti-theft measures. Details can be found at:
http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/motor/design/adr_online.aspx.
If import volume exceeds 100 new vehicles per year, destructive testing (e.g., crash
test) may be required.
 The ADRs require that with only a few exceptions, left-hand drive vehicles, regardless
of the scheme under which imported, must be converted to right-hand drive prior to
licensing for road use. Vehicles manufactured before 1 January 1989 are exempt and
can be driven in left-hand drive configuration.
 Beginning May 3, 2003, up to 100 examples of specific vehicle models listed on the
“Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicles Scheme” see:
https://infrastructure.gov.au/roads/motor/sevs/
http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/motor/sevs/index.aspx) may be imported by
Registered Automotive Workshops (RAWs) without being subject to the full
requirements of the ADR. Australian residents must contract with a RAW, or become
one in order to import registry-listed vehicles.
 Vehicles produced prior to July 1989 may be subject to earlier versions of ADRs,
subject to state enforcement. To be licensed for use on public roads, the vehicle must
meet the safety regulations of the state or territory in which it will be registered.
 A “Personal Import” program allows one vehicle per year to be imported by an
individual of legal driving age without proof that it meets the ADR, provided that the
vehicle has been owned and used abroad by the import applicant for a continuous
period of at least 12 months. The applicant must be either an Australian citizen or
permanent resident, or must have applied for either status.
NEW ZEALAND - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

New Zealand’s vehicle fleet comprises of mainly imported vehicles. The light fleet
(passenger and light commercial vehicles) makes up over 90 percent of New Zealand’s
total vehicle fleet. The light fleet is made up of cars, vans, utilities, four wheel drives,
sports utility vehicles (SUVs), buses and motor caravans.
In 2013, New Zealand’s light vehicle registrations were at an all-time record levelfor the
first time since the financial crisis. The high number of light vehicle registrations was
accompanied by the lowest level of scrappage of light vehicles in over a decade. As a result
the light fleet grew significantly.
Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars (HTS 8703) ranges from free to 10% depending on engine
size
 The tariff applied to trucks (HTS 8704) is free
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) ranges from free to 5%
Taxes:
 A Goods and Services (GST) of 15% is levied on all sales transactions in New
Zealand. The tax is based on the landed value of the motor vehicle and is collected
by New Zealand Customs.
 New Zealanders drive on the left-hand side of the road (steering wheel on the right.)
Left Hand Drive vehicles can be imported into New Zealand but restrictions are
enforced for road use. A light vehicle less than 20 years old cannot generally be
registered unless it has been issued with a permit issued by the NZ Transport
Agency (NZTA). Website: www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/factsheets/12a/category-
a.html
Local/Regional Content Requirements: none required

Other Measures:
 All vehicles must comply with New Zealand’s safety standards before they can be
registered for use on New Zealand roads. The approved standards are listed in this
New Zealand Transport Agency link: www.nzta.govt.nz/vehicle/classes-
standards/list.html
Used vehicle imports from the United States must meet a range of approved standards
before they can be registered for use on New Zealand roads:
 proof of ownership – deregistration or change of ownership papers or a USA

certificate of origin plus an invoice, bill of sale or receipt, etc
 emissions standards – an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) label or a
statement of compliance that includes an approved emission standard
 frontal impact standards – it appears on our list of compliant vehicles, an FMVSS
(US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) plate or a statement of compliance
 fuel consumption – fuel consumption certificate
 heavy-vehicle brake standards
 overall standards – an FMVSS plate or a statement of compliance.
Similar to petrol and diesel vehicles, hybrid or plug-in electric hybrid vehicles must comply
with New Zealand’s emissions and safety standards. Fuel consumption is required for a
light vehicle, other than a motorcycle. A battery electric (powered wholly by electricity)
vehicle must meet the appropriate safety standards, but not the emissions or fuel
consumption requirements.
New Zealand’s Membership in Trade & Economic Agreements:
ASEAN: Free Trade Agreement (FTA): http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-

Relations/2-Trade-Relationships-and-Agreements/Asean/index.php
Australia: Closer Economic Relationship: http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-

Relations/2-Trade-Relationships-and-Agreements/Australia/index.php
China: FTA: http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Relations/2-Trade-

Relationships-and-Agreements/China/index.php
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-

Relations/2-Trade-Relationships-and-Agreements/Gulf-Cooperation-
Council/index.php
Hong Kong: Closer Economic Partnership (CEP): http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-

Economic-Relations/2-Trade-Relationships-and-Agreements/Hong-Kong/index.php
Korea FTA: https://korea.fta.govt.nz/

Malaysia: FTA: http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Relations/2-Trade-
Relationships-and-Agreements/Malaysia/index.php
Singapore: CEP: http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Relations/2-Trade-

Relationships-and-Agreements/Singapore/index.php
Thailand: CEP: http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Relations/2-Trade-

Relationships-and-Agreements/Thailand/index.php
New Zealand is also currently negotiating separate FTAs with India and Indonesia, as well as a
block trade agreement with Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.
AFRICAN COUNTRIES SURVEYED:
EGYPT - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
Import duties on passenger vehicles range from 40-160 percent, based on engine
displacement:
 40 percent: cylinder capacity less than or equal to 1.6 liter.

 135 percent: cylinder capacity between 1.6-2.0 liters.
 160 percent: cylinder capacity over or equal to 2.0 liters.
Taxes:
A sales tax is also levied on motor vehicles that ranges from 15-45 percent, based on engine
displacement:
 15 percent: cylinder capacity up to 1.6 liters.
 30 percent: cylinder capacity between 1.6-2.0 liters.
 45 percent: cylinder capacity over 2.0 liters.
 A transfer tax is applicable on all auto sales.
 Imports of new automobiles are permitted within the year of manufacturing
 Vehicles designed for special uses can be imported up to five years from the year of
manufacturing.
 Egypt adopts European-based emissions and safety standards exclusively which
affect U.S. auto parts exports in the sectors of health, safety and the environment, such
as brakes, lights and tires.
 Importation of used automobiles for commercial purposes is prohibited. They may
be imported for personal use upon verification of ownership.
 Imports of refurbished and right-hand drive vehicles are prohibited.

 Local automobile manufacturers are required to locally source 55 percent of auto
parts in order to benefit from savings on custom duty tariffs.
Other Measures:
 Trip ticket system allows free import for maximum period of 6 months, provided
submitting trip ticket documentation and plates. Once the period of 6 months is
over, the vehicle should be exported for at least 6 months before shipping back to
Egypt again.
 Only diplomats and expatriates working under the Egyptian government umbrella
are allowed to import a motor vehicle duty-free. Re-exportation must be guaranteed.
 The Egypt-EU Association Agreement, which entered into force in 2004, will bring
all auto tariffs faced by EU carmakers to zero by 2019, with certain vehicle classes
duty-free by 2016.
Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA)

Agadir Agreement – Morocco, Tunisia and Jordan FTA
EU Partnership Agreement
COMESA FTA
UEMOA Framework Agreement
MERCOSUR Framework Agreement
Turkey FTA
NIGERIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to Fully Built Up (FBU) cars is 35 percent
 The tariff applied to Completely Knocked Down (CKD) parts for assembling is 0
percent and that of Semi-Knocked Down (SKD) parts is 5-10 percent.
 The tariff applied to commercial vehicles is 35 percent
 The tariff applied to trucks is 35 percent
 The tariff for auto parts is 10-20 percent
Taxes:
 Special Levy on Fully Built Up (FBU) cars is 35 Percent
 Used Motor Vehicles above 15 years from the year of manufacture – H.S. Codes
8703.10.0000 – 8703.90.0000
 Imports of refurbished and right-hand drive vehicles
 Rethreaded and used Pneumatic tires but excluding used trucks tires for rethreading
of sized 11.00 x 20 and above 4012.2010.00.
Other Measures:
 As an incentive measure, local manufacturing operations are allowed to import FBU
cars without levy and commercial vehicles at 20% in proportion to their local
production. Tariff on these inputs will increase as well once local manufacturing
capacity strengthens. The objective of this policy is to establish vehicle assembly
plants that source much of their local content locally. For example, an assembly
plant may start operations with SKD2 assembly and move to SKD1, CKD and
finally assembly operations or skip some of the phases.

 Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
 Trade and Investments Framework Agreement (TIFA)
SOUTH AFRICA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 32 percent on light vehicles (passenger cars and light trucks) and heavy duty trucks
 20 percent on most automotive parts
Taxes:
 AD VALORUM duty on all vehicles (approximately 2 percent – depending on value)
 14 percent value added tax (VAT)
 Imported used car values reflect their depreciated value, up to a limit of 45 percent (If
purchased brand new and up until 4 years old = 60 percent)
 Strict control measures ensure that only a limited number of legal import permits are
issued to allow used vehicles into SA. In terms of current legislation, used vehicles
qualifying for an import permit include those for returning residents and immigrants,
vintage cars, racing cars, donated vehicles for welfare organizations and adapted
vehicles for persons with physical disabilities. Without a legal import permit, imported
used vehicles cannot be registered on the National Information Transport System
(NaTIS) while the system also combats stolen and non-complying vehicle registrations.
All vehicle-manufacturing plants have also been linked on line to the system to
facilitate the collation of data of vehicles produced. Government and industry are
engaged in various actions and initiatives to effectively combat the illegal import of
used vehicles into SA. The focus of the task teams has been extended to also include
imported new vehicles not complying with the SA Bureau of Standards compulsory
vehicle specifications as well as illegal registrations on the NaTIS. In this regard, the
SABS Letter of Authority (LOA) was introduced in 2000 as a means of certification of
compliance with SABS standards. The LOA has been instrumental in combating the
increasing levels of imports of non-complying vehicles that tend to have sub-standard
safety features to the detriment of road safety. In addition, SABS homologation is the
procedure to ensure that all new vehicle models comply with the relevant SA
legislation, standards and specifications, as well as codes of practice, for motor vehicles
intended for use by the public on public roads. The process for homologation must be
carried out before any motor vehicle model is introduced into the SA market. This
prevents the need to withdraw a motor vehicle model before it enters the market and
reduces the possibility of resultant legal action against the supplier. A process of
homologation is also required in respect of motor vehicle tires.

 South Africa's Phase VI local content program for the automotive manufacturing sector
sets a value-based minimum local content level of 55 percent for South African built
vehicles. The value of exported parts or vehicles can count for 5 percent of the local
content requirement. In addition, the Phase VI local content program allows vehicle
manufacturers to import original equipment free from the excise duty. (Previously, the
program required all manufacturers to attain 66 percent local content measured by
weight.) The Phase VI program induces companies to reach a local content value of 75
percent.
Other Measures:
 The major hindrance to investment is probably the uncertainty as to whether
government auto policy will call for integration of the existing assemblers into a
smaller, more efficient industry.
EUROPEAN UNION (EU):
The EU Motor Vehicle Framework Directive 2007/46/EC (MVFD) covers a broad range of
vehicles, including trailers, buses and special purpose vehicles. The approval process
involves interaction with different bodies prior to bringing cars on the EU market.
Typically, a national (member state) approval authority conducts assessments for EU-wide
‘type approvals’ whereas designated technical services are in charge of testing and
certification. The process affects entire vehicles as well as components such as rearview
windows, steering wheels and axles among others. The latter are covered in separate
legislation.
For mass-produced vehicles, the process is referred to as ‘whole-vehicle type-approval’.

Manufacturers of vehicles seeking ‘whole-vehicle type-approval’ design a prototype, apply
for type approval and upon receipt of approval, produce the vehicle in series, using
approved components where required.
Limited-import vehicles need to obtain individual approval. For example, someone

wishing to import a car bought in the United States into the EU would need to obtain
approval for that single vehicle. The process for individual approval is very similar to that
for type-approval with a few exceptions (e.g. no destructive testing).
EU type approval will be recognized throughout the EU. One approval authority typically
exists per country, and a manufacturer may work with any of them. Typically the approval
authority is the Ministry of Transportation or Mobility. A body called a ‘technical service’
performs or supervises the tests called for in the relevant regulations. Certificates of
conformity accompany type-approved vehicles, and an affixed marking designates
approved components.
Some automotive parts/components are covered by separate EU automotive legislation.

For example, a catalytic converter is covered by EU legislation numbers 1998/77 and
2002/80 as well as UN ECE R103. Such products have to be type approved prior to
bringing them on the EU market. Type approval testing/certification for the EU market can
be done in the United States, using the services of, among others, TUV Rheinland
(German) or VCA (British). Their websites are:
http://www.tuv.com/en/usa/services_usa/transportation_us/automotive/automotive.html and
http://www.vcana.com/
Weblink: http://ec.europa.eu/growth/sectors/automotive/legislation/index_en.htm
Aftermarket products such as lubricants, electronic accessories or tuning parts are not
covered by EU automotive legislation. Depending on the type of product, other EU
legislation is relevant:
- Lubricants: Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals
Regulation (REACH)
- Electronic accessories: Low Voltage Directive (LVD), Electromagnetic
Compatibility Directive (EMC), Restriction on the use of Hazardous Substances
Directive (RoHS) and Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive s
(WEEE)
Others, such as bicycle racks or rescue kits: the General Product Safety Directive applies.
Questions? Please contactLouis Fredricks , U.S. Mission to the European Union, Brussels,
Belgium ([email protected])
AUSTRIA - New Motor Vehicle Sales (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The European Union tariffs are in force in Austria.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax is 20 percent; vehicles for commercial use are exempted
 Fuel consumption tax (NoVA)
o Paid once on purchase
o Maximum tax is 32% of purchase price
o Autos for the handicapped are exempted
o Electric vehicles and diesel vehicles pay a reduced rate
o There is a key for the calculation of this tax, which takes emissions into
consideration. Info available in English here:
http://www.fahrzeugindustrie.at/fileadmin/content/Zahlen___Fakten/Steuern/Au
stria_2014_TAX_Guide_Austria01March2014_update.pdf
 Annual vehicle tax is calculated based on motor capacity/weight. The calculation key
is available in English here:
http://www.fahrzeugindustrie.at/fileadmin/content/Zahlen___Fakten/Steuern/Austria_2
014_TAX_Guide_Austria01March2014_update.pdf
Import Restrictions: none
Local/Regional Content Requirements: none

 European Union
 WTO
 EFTA
BELGIUM - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Belgium. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent (passenger cars- 10 percent; electric motor cars- 12.5 percent; trucks- 11-22
percent).
 21 % VAT (assessed on the effective invoice price at the time of sale of the vehicle)
 Registration Tax (applied to new cars, minibuses and motorcycles, not commercial
vehicles), based on age and fiscal horsepower/engine size, and assessed on invoice
price. (This tax increases steeply for cars with larger engines, and diesel engines pay
more.) On second-hand vehicles, the registration tax is generally 25 percent (only
when non taxable vendor).
 Total acquisition tax for 2,000cc and over car: 25%
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (based on cylinder capacity)
o Commercial Vehicles (based on weight and axles)
 Road tax (based on engine size)
 Annual liability premium
 Energy tax which affects the price of gasoline
Luxembourg:
 The European Union tariffs are in force in Luxembourg. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 15% VAT
 No vehicle registration tax
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (based on CO2 emissions)
o Commercial vehicles (based on weight and axles)
The Luxembourg agency responsible for establishing and enforcing safety and road-
worthiness requirements for autos, tucks and motorcycles is the Societe National de
Controle Technique (SNCT). This agency is responsible for both national and EU type
approval. SNCT's registration department allows new vehicles to enter into service if they
are covered by a EU whole vehicle type approval and accompanied by a valid certificate of
conformity as specified in Annex IX of EU Directive 92/53.
BULGARIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Belgium. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 VAT: 20%
 Registration tax: None
 Ownership Taxes:
o Passenger cars: based on kilowatt
o Commercial vehicles: based on weight and axles
CROATIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
The European Union tariffs are in force in Croatia.
 The tariffs applied to cars, depending on the model, are 5-12 percent.
 The tariffs applied to trucks, depending on the model, are 5-10 percent.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is 5-14 percent.
Taxes:
Special vehicle's tax is a sum consisted of:
- Sales price tax, ranging from 1% for sales price up to $16,00, to 14% for sales price
over $83,000;
- CO2 emission tax, ranging from 1.5% for CO2 emission up to 100 grams per
kilometer, to 31% for emissions over 301 grams per kilometer for diesel vehicles or
up to 29% for emissions over 301 grams per kilometer for gas vehicles.
Value Added Tax for vehicles falls into the highest category and amounts 25%. VAT basis
includes sales price, transportation costs and custom duties.
Import Restrictions: None

New and used vehicles that are not EU tested and approved can be approved on an
individual basis by the importer or buyer in Croatia. The car must be brought to an
approved testing facility along with title, sales contract, proof of customs payment, and
complete technical data (including exact exhaust values). The vehicle will then be
approved or modified to conform to EU and Croatian regulations.
Other Measures:
 Import license is required for importers of vehicles and some auto parts. Different
licenses are in place for used and new vehicles.
 European Union
 WTO
 EFTA
CYPRUS - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Cyprus. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 VAT: 15%
 Registration tax: based on cylinder capacity and CO2 (2,000 cc=CYP 4,000)
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (based on cylinder capacity and CO2)
CZECH REPUBLIC - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in the Czech Republic. They range from
5.3 to 22 percent (passenger cars- 10 percent; electric motor cars- 12.5 percent;
trucks- 11-22 percent).
 VAT: 21 percent
 Imported vehicle registration:
o Registration Fee CZK 800 ($49)
o Mandatory Technical Check-up CZK1500 ($214)
 Ecological Tax
o Current: For cars manufactured before 2000 - emission-based fees are to be
paid (emissions stated by car’s logbook).
o Future: The same will be applied for cars manufactured before 2006 as of
2013:
o Emissions limit / Fee:
Not complying CZK 10,000 ($588)
Comply with EURO 1 CZK 5,000 ($294)
Comply with EURO 2 CZK 3,000 ($176)
Comply with EURO 3 CZK 0 ($0)
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (none)
o
DENMARK - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Denmark. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 VAT: 25%
 Vehicle registration tax (based on price)
The tax is based on the landed cost plus VAT. For the first 79,000 Danish Kroner (DK),
the tax is 105 percent and for the remaining landed value, 180 percent.
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (based on fuel consumption and weight)
o Commercial vehicles (based on weight)
The Danish government body responsible for establishing and enforcing national and EU
auto, truck and motorcycle requirements, and type approval is the Traffic Safety Division
within the Danish Ministry of Justice in Copenhagen.
FINLAND - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
The European Union tariffs are in force in Finland

 The tariff applied to trucks is 10-22 percent.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is 4.5 percent.
Taxes:
Three different taxes are levied on vehicles used in road traffic.

 Car tax; based on carbon dioxide emissions. Its share of an average passenger car is
25 percent. The tax basis for car tax after first registration was revised as of 1
January 2015. The new provisions apply to all changes in ownership, structure or
use of a vehicle made on or after 1 January 2015.
 Vehicle tax; it comprises a base tax and a tax on driving power. The tax on driving
power is imposed on vehicles that are powered by some other force or fuel than
motor petrol.
 Fuel tax; the energy tax reform introduced at the beginning of 2011 favors fuels that
contain biological components. Energy taxation on transport fuels is based on
energy content and CO2 emissions. In addition, the tax rate is affected by near
emissions, and for light fuel oil, sulphur content.
 No tax exceptions for electric vehicles.
 VAT 24 percent
Only passenger cars with catalytic converters are allowed to be imported into Finland. An
imported car or motorcycle needs to be inspected and registered prior to use. A tax
decision from the customs is required for the registration. Customs’ authorization is also
required before the vehicle can be moved within Finland.
For additional information on import tariffs, taxes and regulations please contact the
Finnish Customs Information Service
http://www.tulli.fi/en/contact_us/index.jsp
 No local content requirement exists for a given country.
Other Measures:
 Finland's current road traffic legislation already permits automated vehicle trials –
no amendments will be required. More info
http://www.trafi.fi/en/road/automated_vehicle_trials

 Member of the EU
FRANCE - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars is between 5 and 10 percent.

Taxes:

 Special tax depending on CO2 emissions and well as engine power. 0 Euros under
130g/km to (8,000 Euros above 200g/km. + 160 Euros per year).
 Taxes on company fleet vehicles depending on CO2 emission and power engine:
between 750 Euros and 4,500 Euros.
No restriction of imported vehicles in general but mandatory modifications/changes
required in accordance with the French road vehicle regulation. Mandatory documents:
Certificate of conformity for new cars; registration certificate for cars already registered;
insurance; ownership; VAT payment; roadworthiness; vehicle road tax.

 No local content requirement exists for France.
Other Measures:
 Super bonus for the acquisition of a clean vehicle from 150 Euros to 6,300 Euros
depending on CO2/Km and type of EU entry certifications.

In progress: TTIP
GERMANY – Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Cars 42,927,647 43,431,124 43,851,230
Commercial Vehicles 3,055,708 3,107,000 3,163,469
Tariffs:
 Germany is part of the EU’s tariff union. Import duties for motor vehicles depend on
vehicle type and range from 5.3 to 22 percent (passenger cars: 10 %; trucks: 11-22 %).
Taxes:
 When importing a vehicle from a non-EU member state, an additional 19% import
turnover tax is applied on the total amount of: (i) value of vehicle + (ii) shipping costs +
(iii) customs duty. In the later distribution stages, this import-turnover tax is passed on
to the consumer as a VAT (value-added tax).
 Electric vehicles (EVs) are exempt from vehicle tax for 10/5 years, depending on the
registration date (before/after Jan 1, 2016). The tax exempt does not apply for hybrid-
electric vehicles.
 Vehicle tax in Germany depends on vehicle type
o Passenger cars (based on cylinder capacity and emissions)
o Commercial vehicles (based on weight, pollution and noise)
 No import restrictions.
 Imported vehicles must comply with EU and German technical, safety and
environmental requirements to be registered in Germany.
 Specific requirements/ customs exist for vintage cars, trucks, replicas, specific trucks
and non-registers vehicles.
Other Measures:
 Incentives exist for EVs, e.g. vehicle tax exemptions, reserved parking space etc.
Several other supportive measures and incentives were announced (and partially
implemented) under the federal electric mobility bill (“Elektromobilitaetsgesetz”,
EmoG) that was passed in 2014.

 EU member state

GREECE - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Greece. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 VAT: 23%
 Vehicle registration tax (based on engine size and emissions: 5-50%)
 Luxury tax: 0-40%
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (based on cylinder capacity and horsepower)
o Commercial vehicles (based on payload)
Greece also applies a high and complex special consumption tax (SCT) to motor vehicles.
The SCT effectively raises the retail price of a small car to 250 percent of C.I.F. value and
of a large car to 600 percent.
Due to the formation of the EU's single internal market, the Government of Greece is being
pressured to reduce its high taxes.
The Greek agency responsible for both national and EU type approval for all vehicles is the
Directorate of Vehicle Technology within the Ministry of Transport and Communications
in Athens.
HUNGARY - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff HS 8702 applied to both new and used cars is 10 percent.
 The tariff applied to heavy-duty trucks for HS 8703 and 8704 ranges between 16-22
percent.
 The tariff for special purpose vehicles under HS 8705 is 3.7 percent.
 The tariff applied to automotive parts and components HS 8707 and 8708 ranges
between 3 and 4.5 percent.
Taxes:
 Vehicle registration tax, based on age, engine size and emissions is imposed on
imported cars. For a typical car – for example, one that has an engine size between
1,100 –1,400 cm3, with EURO 4 ranking – the registration tax is HUF 722,000 ($
3,820). If the vehicle is of EURO 8 ranking the registration tax is only HUF
361,000 ($ 1,910).
 Ownership Taxes: Passenger cars: based on weight and horsepower
Commercial vehicles: based on weight and pollution
 Special “Weight Tax” levied by local authorities annually ranges between HUF
20,000 and HUF 38,000 ($ 105 - $ 180)
 Total acquisition tax for 2,000cc and over car: 20 percent
 Annual liability premium
Other:
 Average age of cars: 11.3 years (2010)
 Import of used passenger vehicles older than 4 years and commercial vehicles older
than 6 years is prohibited. However, specialized older vehicles may still be imported
after passing a special technical test.
IRELAND - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 As a member state of the European Union (EU), Ireland implements EU common
tariffs/duties on imports of motor vehicles coming from non-EU countries such as
the United States.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) range between 2.7 and 4.5
percent.
Taxes:
 Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) is chargeable on the registration of a motor vehicle
in Ireland. All motor vehicles in Ireland, other than those brought in temporarily by
visitors, must be registered with the Irish Revenue Commissioners before it can be
licensed for road tax purposes.
 Since July 2008, VRT is calculated by reference to the Co2/km emissions of a
vehicle. There are eleven Co2 emissions bands with VRT rates ranging from 14-36
percent.
 There are VRT reliefs for electric vehicles (up to €5,000), plug-in hybrid electric
vehicles (up to €2,500), and hybrid and flexible fuel vehicles (up to €1,500).
 The rate of VRT applicable to light commercial (Category B) vehicles, subject to a
minimum VRT of €125, is 13.3% of the Open Market Selling Price (OMSP).
 The VRT rate applicable to heavy commercial (Category C) vehicles is a flat rate of
€200.
 There are no restrictions on the importation of used automobiles, however all
imported used vehicles must undergo a National Car Test to ensure they comply
with Irish road safety and environmental standards.

 None
Other Measures:
 All new vehicles (passenger cars and commercial vehicles) are required to have type
approval such as ECWVTA (European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval),
NSSTA (National Small Series Type Approval) or IVA (Individual Vehicle
Approval) in order to be registered in Ireland.
 Every automobile and commercial vehicle must come with a technical report
verifying it complies with applicable safety and environmental standards. An
automobile becomes eligible for the National Car Test (NCT) when it is four years
old and then must be re-tested every two years. Vehicles over ten years old must be
tested annually. The NCT is a preventative road safety measure that ensures
vehicles, particularly older ones, using Irish roads are in sound working order.
 All commercial vehicles must undergo an annual Commercial Vehicle

Roadworthiness Test (CVRT) after they are over one year old. The purpose of the
test is to ensure that the vehicle is in good condition throughout its entire life. There
are separate tests for Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) and Heavy Commercial
Vehicles (HCVs).
 Imports of used vehicles from non-EU countries require documentary evidence

confirming the level of Co2 emissions. This evidence can include (a) evidence
supplied on previous registration documents, (b) manufacturer’s documentation
stating the level of Co2 emissions at the time of manufacture, and (c) Certificate of
Conformity. The vehicle must also be submitted for an NCT to determine its VRT
category.
 EU
 WTO
ITALY - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs: The European Union tariffs are in force in Italy
Taxes:
 Luxury tax Over 185Kw ; the tax is euro 20 for each additional Kw
 A registration tax is applicable on all vehicles sales (and concerns both new
registrations and used-vehicles): it depends upon the Kw; different local
administration may charge different amounts.
 NO

 NO
Other Measures:
 NO

EU, WTO
LATVIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Latvia. They range from 5.3 to 22 percent
(passenger cars- 10 percent; electric motor cars- 12.5 percent; trucks- 11-22 percent).
 VAT: 21%
 Registration tax (based on CO2 emission)
 Tax on cars and motorcycles. Tax shall be paid when the car or motorcycle is registered
in Latvia for the first time. Tax rate shall depend on age and engine capacity of the
car or motorcycle. Tax rate for cars with engine capacity starting from 3001 cubic
centimeters and more is significantly higher.
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (based on weight)
LITHUANIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Lithuania. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 VAT: 21%
 No vehicle registration tax
 Ownership tax
o Commercial vehicles (not available)
MALTA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Malta. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 VAT: 18%
 Vehicle registration tax based on price, CO2 emissions, and vehicle length
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (based on cylinder capacity)
NETHERLANDS - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
Import duties/tariffs (applies when a car is imported from a non-European Union country).
 Vehicles older than 30 years are exempt from import duties and pay only 6% value
added tax.
Taxes:
 Luxury tax, also known to the Dutch as “BPM” is based on vehicle emissions.
 Vehicle ownership tax varies because it is based on vehicle weight, fuel, residence
(provinces can levy a separate tax)
There are no import restrictions, but vehicles imported from outside of the European Union
need to conform to the same safety and environmental standards as vehicles manufactured
within the EU.

None
Other Measures:
None

The Netherlands is a member of the European Union
POLAND - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff for auto parts is 3 to 4.5 percent.
Taxes:
 Excise tax, depending on engine size; for engines not exceeding 2000 cm3 the
excise tax is 3.1% of the value of an imported vehicle (i.e. is calculated after the
10% tariff has been levied). Engines larger than 2000 cm3 => excise tax is 18.6%
 Value Added Tax is 23 percent (applies to vehicles imported directly from the
United States)

 Poland has not introduced restrictions on imports of used vehicles following the EU
accession in 2004. As a result, the period between 2005 and 2010 was characterized by
a sharp rise in the number of registrations of both new and used (imported) vehicles.
Excise tax—combination of net worth of a vehicle and its engine size—serves as an
incentive to import cars from Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, or Italy. If a vehicle
is older than six months, the buyer can request a VAT waiver. Indeed, since 2004, Poles
imported 7.5 million passenger cars, half of which was at least 10 years old. Another,
fairly recent trend has to do with decreasing interest in diesel engines (fuel prices and
associated engine size). A public debate about introducing limitation with respect to
imports of used cars reappears every six to eight months.
 Imports from outside the EU (including the United States) are deemed attractive
with respect to vehicles characterized by a high price differential compared with
European sources.

 Vehicles imported from the United States need to be adjusted to comply with Polish
technical and safety standards. Necessary modifications include lighting and turn
signals, as well as exhaust system. Speedometer needs to be rescaled (kph instead of
mph). All adjustments can be carried out once the vehicle had been imported to
Poland.

European Union
PORTUGAL - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
• The European Union tariffs are in force in Portugal. They range from 5.3 to 22 percent
(passenger cars- 10 percent; electric motor cars- 12.5 percent; trucks- 11-22 percent).
Taxes:
• Value Added Tax (VAT) is 23 percent
• Vehicle Registration Tax (ISV) based on cylinder capacity and CO2 emissions
• Ownership tax (Annual Circulation Tax - IUC)
 Passenger cars registered between 1981 – July 2007 based on cylinder
capacity and CO2 emissions and age
 Passenger cars registered since July 2007 based on cylinder capacity and
CO2 emissions
 Diesel moved cars have an extra tax according to the cylinder capacity
 Commercial vehicles based on weight, axles and type of suspension
Portugal, like other European countries, also maintains a progressive tax, based on engine
size and CO2 emissions. Vehicles Registration Tax is also subject to VAT (i.e.: car’s base
price + ISV + VAT). A reduced rate of 10 to 75% may be applied depending on a range of
aspects such as weight, usage of LPG fueled vehicles, hybrid vehicles and motor homes.
Imported used vehicles must pay ISV, however when imported from a European Union
country a reduced rate ranging between 20% and 52% may be applied based on age. The
reduced rate is applied to the total amount of tax to be paid. Electric vehicles are exempted
from ISV and IUC.
The Portuguese National State Budget for 2015 established the “Green taxes”. It is a set of
new rules that intents to have a positive impact in the environment. The changes are:
 The discount on the ISV charged to non-plug-in hybrid cars is now 40%.
 The discount on the ISV charged to cars exclusively moved natural gas or liquefied
petroleum gas is now 60%
 The discount on the ISV charged to plug-in passenger cars with a minimal
autonomy of 25 km is now 75%.
 The incentives to the disposal of end-of-life vehicles were reestablished. The
amount of the subsidy given to the purchase of a new car depends on the
characteristics of the new vehicle. For example, if the new car is an electric vehicle,
the incentive is higher than if the new car is moved by gas. The disposed car must
have more than 10 years and it has to have been in owner’s property for more than 6
months.
 The buyers of electric or hybrid cars used for tourism are now able to deduct the
VAT paid.
 The ISV increased according to the CO2 emissions of the vehicle. Also, the
Government created a new C02 tax that is applied in the fuel sales.
The Institute for Mobility and Transportation (IMT) is the government agency responsible
for supervising and regulating the automotive sector in Portugal. The Portuguese
Automotive Association (ACAP) is a public non-profit utility association representing the
automotive industry covering a wide range of activities such as import, trade and after-sale
services of automotive vehicles, agricultural and industrial machinery, tires, spare parts and
accessories, camping and caravanning trailers, motorcycles and other sectors connected to
the transportation trade activity.
ROMANIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Romania. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 VAT: 24 percent
 Registration tax (Environmental stamp): based on CO2 emissions, Polution norm
and cc (2,000cc 160g/km CO2 = $307 - Euro5, $1490- Euro4)

 Total acquisition tax for 2,000cc and over for a new car: 2 percent
 Ownership tax
o Passenger cars (based on cylinder capacity). No tax for Electric vehicles & 95%
reduced for Hybrid cars
SLOVENIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 The European Union tariffs are in force in Slovenia. They range from 5.3 to 22
percent).
 VAT: 20%
 Vehicle registration tax based on price and CO2 emissions
 Ownership tax
SPAIN - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Taxes:
Customs Duties Rate The current rate according to the
Common Customs Tariff
Place of Payment Customs Administration Office
Value Added Tax Rate of Taxation 16%
Place of Payment Customs Administration Office
Tax on Certain Means of Transport Rates of Taxation
Automobiles with a cylinder 7%
capacity of less than 1600 HP
and gasoline engine
Automobiles with a cylinder 7%
capacity of less than 2000 HP
and diesel engine
Other means of transport 12%
Place of Payment Tax Agency Bureau for the fiscal
domicile of the person
concerned
Declaration Specimen Form 565
Spain allows the importation of used vehicles. Also there are no restrictions on the age of
the tractors, trailers and passenger cars. Your potential clients don’t need any import
licenses, as long as, the import procedures (explained below) are in order.
In order to import any product to Spain, your client will need:
Formulation: A written declaration must be obtained of the official form called

”Documento Único Administrativo” (DUA). It can be filled out by Resolution 04-12-00
(B.O.E 306 of 22-12-00) in the Customs and Special Taxes Department. And it can be
purchased in any Spanish Customs Office, along with the Value Declaration (D.V.I) and C-
10.
The following documents will need to be presented with the declaration:
1. The commercial invoice in which the custom’s value of the merchandise is

declared.
2. When necessary, a declaration of the customs value of the merchandise.
3. The necessary documents for the application of a preferential tariff regimen or other
regimen if different from the common one and applicable to the declared
merchandise.
4. The documents related to transportation including the ones corresponding to the
previous custom regimen.
5. The documents justifying the commercial regimen of the merchandise, when
necessary.
6. And in general, all documents that prove to be necessary for the liquidation of any
tax or charge demanded for importation or to justify the right of exemption.
The products imported from the United States must be accompanied by the following
documents:
1. One copy of Bill of Lading.

2. One copy of the Commercial Invoice.
3. Three copies of the Certificate of Origin.
In Spain, the agency responsible for national and EU motor vehicle type approval is the
Direccion General de Tecnologia y Seguridad Industrial within the Ministerio de Industria
y Energia (Ministry of Industry and Energy) in Madrid.
SWEDEN - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars is 10% percent.
 The tariff applied to trucks is 22% percent.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) ranges mainly between 2,7%-
4,5%.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax is 25% percent

 Ownership taxes depend on CO2 emissions, value and weight
 Vehicle registration (fee for origin check: SEK 700. Technical inspection (vehicle
identity check): from SEK 890 (class M1) to SEK 1 920 (class M3)
 No local content regulations or import restrictions
Other Measures:
During the period from 1 December to 31 March there are special requirements in Sweden
on which type of tire a certain vehicle is to have when there are wintry conditions on the
road. These requirements apply to both light and heavy vehicles, as well as for vehicles
registered in Sweden and abroad.
Winter tires are produced specifically for winter driving and are labelled M+S (M.S, M-S,
M&S or Mud and Snow). Winter tires can be studded or non-studded. Studded tires may be
used from 1 October to 15 April.

 EU
 WTO
UNITED KINGDOM - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
The 'Common Customs Tariff' (CCT) applies to the import of goods across the external
borders of the EU. You must pay VAT and duty through customs when you import a
vehicle.
 The tariff applied to cars is based on cylinder capacity (As an example, the tariff on a
cylinder capacity not exceeding 1000 cm3 is 10%)
 The tariff applied to trucks is based on cylinder capacity and weight (As an example,
the tariff on vehicle weight exceeding 5 tonnes but not exceeding 20 tonnes is 22%).
 The tariff for auto parts varies and is between approximately 3% and 5%.
 Specific details on import duties can be found by visiting https://www.gov.uk/trade-
tariff/sections.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax is 20%.

 The cost of yearly vehicle tax for new cars is split into 13 bands depending on CO2
emissions. It ranges from $0 for vehicles up to 100 CO2 emissions (g/km), to
approximately $1700 for vehicles over 255 CO2 emissions (g/km). Motorcycles are
taxed by cylinder size, and light goods vehicles are taxed by weight.
 Vehicle tax rates for buses, general haulage and recovery vehicles, and private heavy
goods vehicles vary and are based on seating capacity and pollution class. Detailed
information regarding tax rates can be obtained by visiting https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-
tax-rate-tables/print
 Vehicles imported from the U.S. must be registered and taxed with the UK’s Driver and
Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and must pass European Type Approval tests.
Vehicle Certification Authority (VCA) is an Executive Agency of the United Kingdom

Department for Transport and the United Kingdom's national approval authority for new
road vehicles, agricultural tractors and off-road vehicles.
End-of-Life-Vehicles (ELV): The ELV directive aims to reduce the amount of waste from
vehicles (cars and light goods vehicles) when they are finally scrapped. Waste sites must
follow special regulations to limit the environmental impact of handling, taking apart and
disposing of vehicles. These are in addition to waste duty of care and hazardous waste
rules all businesses must follow.
New car CO2 regulation: The Climate Change Act (2008) set a long-term legally binding
framework for greenhouse gas reduction in the UK. The Act requires the UK Government
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 34% by 2020 and 80% by 2050 from 1990
levels in the UK. In 2009, European regulation setting binding targets to reduce the CO2
emissions of new cars (EC Regulation No. 443/2009) entered into force. The target is for
an overall European fleet average of 130g/km of CO2 emissions by 2015. There is a further
target for improvement for 2020, set at 95g CO2/km. In June 2011, Regulation
EC/510/2011 entered into force. It follows a similar format to the cars regulation, but
applies to light-duty vans (that is N1 vehicles under the definitions used in European
legislation). It sets a near term European fleet average target of 175g CO2/km to be
achieved by 2017 (phase-in from 2014). A longer term target of 147g CO2/km has been set
for 2020.
WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive). You have certain
responsibilities if you sell electrical and electronic equipment. You must provide a way for
your customers to dispose of their old household electrical and electronic equipment when
you sell them a new version of the same item. The WEEE regulations apply regardless of
how you sell the products whether direct, by internet, mail order or telephone.
You must either provide a free take back service to your customers or you must join the
Distributor Takeback Scheme.

 European Union
 WTO
EUROPEAN FREE TRADE ASSOCIATION:
NORWAY - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

 Taxes for imported vehicles include the following components:

o A one-off sales tax “engangsavgift”, currently a factor of weight of the
vehicle, maximum engine capacity (kW), CO2 emissions and NOX emission
levels. The tax is revised annually and emphasis has been shifting from kW
and weight towards emissions (CO2 initially, and now increasingly NOX)
over the last few years. A full revision is expected in 2016, and will likely
further put emphasis on the emission-side of the equation. The one-off sales
tax is heavily progressive and could exceed CIF value for vehicles with large
engines.
o 25% VAT on customs value. Customs value = purchase price + freight costs
+ insurance costs.
o Recycling fee: NOK 2400 (USD 292)
o Please see the Norwegian Customs tax calculator
 Electric cars are not subject to any tax at all, can drive in commuting lanes, park and
charge batteries for free and drive through toll stations and use ferries without
paying. Incentives are scheduled to be changed gradually from 2019. Limitations to
some commuting lanes have already been implemented.
 Hybrid vehicles receive a flat deduction in one-off sales tax, which often brings this
tax category down to a relatively low amount. VAT still needs to be paid.
 The contrast between progressive taxes on combustion engines and full exemption
for electric vehicles create a high demand for electric vehicles. Electric vehicles are
expected to gain close to 20% market share in 2015 (of new cars), whereas hybrids
had 12.5% market share in September 2015.
 FMVSS-vehicles in “original state” are fully accepted through a clause in the
Norwegian Vehicles Directive. However, since CO2 emission tests follow a
different cycle in the U.S., a different methodology is used to calculate the one-off
sales tax (“engangsavgift”), involving engine displacement (CCM).
 Use-deductions of second hand cars apply, both to FMVSS and EU type approved
vehicles.
CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE/ ASIA MINOR:
ALBANIA:
 There are no local content, export requirements or import restrictions.
 Until January 1991, private ownership of automobiles was prohibited in Albania.

Since the restriction was lifted, used cars have been imported from Yugoslavia,
Greece and other West European countries to meet Albanian consumer demand.
 Financing remains a substantial obstacle to auto sales.
SERBIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to cars manufactured in the EU is 0%.
 The tariff applied to cars manufactured in Non-EU countries is 12.5%.
 The tariff applied to trucks manufactured in the EU is 0%.
 The tariff applied to trucks manufactured in Non-EU countries is 12-20%.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is 10%.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax (VAT) is 20%.
 Corporate Tax is 15%.
 The import tax ranges anywhere between 1% and 32%, depending on the HTS
number.
 According to the Serbian law, any car imported to Serbia must pass a technical
inspection, along with other requirements. The law requires that the technical inspection
of the vehicle must verify that the vehicle complies with Euro 3 standards. In general,
compliance is verified by providing the inspector with original, manufacturer's
documentation stating that the vehicle is Euro 3 compliant. Because most US
manufactured automobiles are not Euro 3 certified by the manufacturer, it is generally
very difficult to register them in Serbia (the registration requires a very difficult and
expensive homologation procedure).
 Import of new vehicles is allowed only if that company does not have a
representative in Serbia.
 The Government of the Republic of Serbia is preparing a new law that will probably
be adopted in 2016. By that law it will be allowed to import new vehicles that
complie with Euro 6 standards and used vehicles that are in accordance with Euro 4
standards.
 Free Trade Agreement with European Union
 Generalized System of Preferences with USA
 Free Trade Agreement with Russia, Belorussia & Kazakhstan
 Free Trade Agreement with CEFTA
 Free Trade Agreement with EFTA
 Free Trade Agreement with Turkey
TURKEY - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs & Taxes:

• Passenger cars –10 percent
• Trucks and buses – 10-22 percent
• Special Consumption Tax: 45-145 percent for passenger cars; 1-9 percent for buses; 0-
75 percent for trucks.
• VAT: 18 percent
• The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) ranges from 4.5 and 19 percent.
• The Turkish import regime prohibits importation of
remanufactured/rebuilt/used/reconditioned vehicles. Only the current year or
the following year models are allowed to be imported. On that case, the first
registry date of production is taken as the basis for the import of
remanufactured/rebuilt/used/reconditioned vehicles.
• The same rule applies for parts, too. The Turkish import regime also prohibits
importation of remanufactured/rebuilt/used/reconditioned parts. They can only
be imported to be used as iron scrap in the iron and steel production.

• There are no restrictions for local content levels. One may even go up to 100
percent imports and just do the assembling.
Other Measures:
• The current regulation asks for 20 after-sale service network in seven different
geographic regions in Turkey for vehicles imports. Distributor needs to prove this
network with a document at the customs during importation. Ministry of Industry
and Trade provides such a document.

GATT
WTO
UNECE
SECI
ECO
D-8
IMF
BSEC
COMCEC
KEI
EFTA
FTA
OECD
CCT
IDA
WEF
COMMONWEALTH OF INDEPENDENT STATES:
RUSSIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)
2011 2012 2013

Tariffs:
 The tariff applied to new cars is 25 percent, combined with a specific rate of 1–
2.35 Euro per every 1 cc of engine volume.
 The tariff applied to trucks is 10-15 percent.
 The tariff applied to special purpose trucks is 5-15 percent.
 The tariff for auto parts (HTS 8407-08 and 8708) is 5-10 percent.
Taxes:
 Value Added Tax is 18 percent. It is paid along with the import duty for imported
vehicles.
 Excise tax depends on the engine capacity and varies from RUR 41* for one
horsepower for engines with capacity below 150 hp and RUR 402* for one
horsepower for engines with capacity over 150 hp. It is paid along with the
import duty for imported vehicles.
 Recycling fee:
- For vehicles imported by individuals: RUR 2,000* for new cars and RUR
3,000* for cars older than 3 years imported by individuals;
- For vehicles imported by legal entities:
 Cars – varies between RUR 17,200* and RUR 700,200* depending on the
age and the engine capacity;
 Trucks – varies between RUR 75,000* and RUR 1,770,000* depending on
the age and size of the truck.
Recycling feet is paid along with the import duty for imported vehicles.
 Customs processing fee depends on the cost of the vehicle and varies between
RUR 5,500* and RUR 100,000*
 Transportation tax is imposed by regional governments, and must be paid
annually. It depends on the engine capacity and may vary. For example, in St.
Petersburg in 2015 it varies from RUR 24* to RUR 150* per one horsepower of
engine capacity of cars and from RUR 25* to RUR 85* for trucks; in Moscow it
varies from RUR 12* to RUR 150* per one horsepower of engine capacity of cars
and from RUR 15* to RUR 75* for trucks.
 Luxury tax is a multiplying ratio applied on the top of transportation tax. The
luxury tax is imposed on vehicles that cost over RUR 3 million* and varies
depending on the age and the cost of the vehicle. Transportation and luxury tax
payments are controlled by regional tax inspection units.
 For imported vehicles import tax, VAT, excise tax, recycling fee and customs
processing fee payments must be paid in advance to Customs.
 Import duty for vehicles older than 7 years is set so high that it is virtually
prohibitive for all kinds of vehicles
 Imports of remanufactured, rebuilt, and/or used motor vehicle parts are not
restricted.
 No local content requirement exists for Russia.

 Russian legislation offers investors in the automotive industry import tax
incentives for localization of content.
Other Measures:
 All new motor vehicles imported to Russia are subject to compulsory

certification, but used vehicles can be imported without such certification. Any
vehicle that was owned after manufacturing and has a title of ownership is
considered used by Customs.
 All vehicles used in Russia are required be compliant with the Technical
Regulation for Motor Vehicles. The Russian Technical Regulation was developed
on the basis of European vehicle standards. Normally, used vehicles imported to
Russia are not checked by Customs for the compliance with the Technical
Regulation.
 Imports of right-hand drive vehicles are prohibited.
 Imported parts are subject to compulsory certification.
 Russia is a member of the Eurasian Economic Commission and Customs Union of

Russia, Belorussia, Kazakhstan and Armenia.
 Russia is a WTO member country.
*Note: Russian Ruble (RUR) rate as on 9/18/2015 is RUR 65.36 for 1 USD.
108

Compilation of Foreign Motor Vehicle Import Requirements

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Compilation of Foreign Motor Vehicle Import Requirements

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Compilation of Foreign Motor Vehicle Import Requirements

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Compilation of Foreign Motor Vehicle Import Requirements

United States Department of Commerce

Countries that drive on the left side of the road 6

North American Countries Surveyed 8-15

South/Central America & Caribbean Countries Surveyed 16-41

Middle East Countries Surveyed 42-47

Asia, ASEAN and Oceania Countries Surveyed 48-78

South/Southwest Asia 55-60

African Countries Surveyed 78-81

European, Asia Minor and CIS Countries Surveyed 82-103

Central and Eastern Europe/ Asia Minor

Commonwealth of Independent States

The Compilation of Foreign Motor Vehicle Import Requirements is designed to provide

The U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Transportation and Machinery, Automotive

This document is also available on the Office of Transportation and Machinery’s

2012 2013 2014

Top Markets for U.S. Exports of Used Cars

2012 2013 2014

CANADA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)

2011 2012 2013

The current applicable taxes are:

Safety and Emissions Compliance:

A list of vehicles admissible can be found at

For further information on the RIV program see website at:

2011 2012 2013

 The tariff applied to cars is zero percent.

New vehicle value Extra percentage and fixed quota

 IGI payment (General Import Tax)

IGI payment (General Import Tax)

 As originally negotiated, NAFTA allowed Mexico to continue to restrict imports of

o Persona Fisica: Individuals can import one used vehicle during a

o Persona Moral: Companies or proprietors can also import one used

 Requirements for Importers

Customs Agent (affiliated to custom of entry of vehicle)

 Importers of used vehicles are required to post a guarantee representing any

IGI payment (General Import Tax)

 Vehicles under harmonized code numbers: 8704.22.07, 8704.23.02, 8704.32.07 for

 Custom Agent’s Obligations:

a) Verify that the vehicle has not been stolen

 By 2019, as per NAFTA, Mexico may not adopt or maintain a prohibition or

Local/Regional Content Requirements:

 The regional value-content requirement for a motor vehicle identified in Article

o As of January 1, 2002, at least 62.5 percent of a passenger car or light

 Effective November 2011, the Mexican government established mandatory

Membership in Trade & Economic Agreements:

ARGENTINA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)

2011 2012 2013

Local Content/Regional Content Requirements:

Membership in Trade & Economic Agreements:

BOLIVIA – Vehicles in Operation (in units)

2011 2012 2013

Membership in Trade and Economic Agreements:

Brazil – Vehicles in Operation (in units)

2011 2012 2013

CHILE – Vehicles in Operation (in units)

2011 2012 2013

Membership in Trade & Economic Agreements:

COLOMBIA - Vehicles in Operation (in units)