Destination

Importing Cars From Japan to Kenya

Kenya is one of the largest and most established markets for used Japanese vehicles in East Africa. Mombasa is the entry port, and KEBS rules require an 8-year age limit (the year the vehicle was first registered, not the model year). Right-hand-drive is mandatory.

  • Port

    Mombasa

  • Age limit

    8 years

  • Drive side

    Right-hand drive

  • Shipping time

    30–45 days (RoRo)

  • Inspection

    KEBS / JEVIC required pre-shipment

Import rules

Vehicles must be no more than 8 years old at the time of import. Right-hand drive only. Vehicles must pass a KEBS-appointed pre-shipment inspection in Japan (we coordinate this with JEVIC). Vehicles must arrive in Mombasa with a clean Roadworthiness Certificate.

Estimated duties and taxes

Total duties and taxes typically run 50–80% of the CIF value. Components include Import Duty (25%), Excise Duty (varies by engine size), VAT (16%), IDF Fee (3.5%), and RDL (2%). Hybrid and EV concessions may apply. Always confirm with your clearing agent for the exact vehicle.

Indicative figures only. Final amounts are set by your customs authority on the day of clearance.

Shipping to Mombasa

Typical transit time: 30–45 days (RoRo). RoRo is the standard option for most cars; container is recommended for higher-value units or multiple vehicles.

Required documents

You receive: original Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, JEVIC certificate, deregistration certificate, and English translation. We courier originals to your clearing agent in Mombasa.

Popular in this market

Popular Models in Kenya

Toyota Premio

Mazda Demio

Toyota Vitz

Subaru Forester

Toyota Harrier

Nissan X-Trail

Why us

Why Import to Kenya Through Us

  • We are familiar with KEBS pre-shipment requirements
  • Direct routes to Mombasa via established RoRo carriers
  • We can refer trusted clearing agents at the port

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