In Kenya, the demand for cars has been on the rise lately. This is probably because of improved roads and the affordability of used cars, especially from Japan. However, this doesn’t mean that European models are not attractive. The reason why most people go for Japanese models is that they come in a wide range of options and a majority of them are easy to maintain. Regardless of brand, there are several rules that govern the process of exporting cars to Kenya. Here are the top 4 that you should know:
1. Should Be Right-Hand-Drive
In Kenya, driving is on the left side of the road. Thus, the cars exported to the East African country are expected to be right-hand drive. However, there is an exemption for special purpose vehicles like ambulances and fire trucks. The two can be left-hand-drive. Luxurious cars are also exempted.
2. Shouldn’t be Older than 8 Years
The car that you bring to Kenya has to be less than 8 years old. For example, the year of manufacture has to be from 2011 onwards if you are planning to import the car in 2019. The difference between the date of registration and that of manufacturing has to be one year. In this case, if the registration date is 2011, then the manufacturing date has to be 2010.
3. Clearance Documents Are Needed
In Kenya, clearance of car imports is done at the port of Mombasa and you are required to pay a certain fee, the import declaration fee (IDF). The fee is roughly $60. Other than the IDF certificate, you need to provide the following clearance documents:
• Bill of Lading
• Import Declaration Form
• Original Logbook
• Certificate of Inspection (Roadworthiness Certificate)
4. You Have to Pay All the Necessary Duties
Other than the IDF, you are expected to pay import duty, excise duty, and VAT. The import duty is 25% the CIF (car cost + insurance + freight) while the excise duty is 20% the CIF + import duty. As for the VAT, it’s 16% the CIF + import duty + excise duty.
As seen, exporting cars to Kenya can be a complicated process since there are strict rules. There is no short-cut — you have to comply with laid regulations if you are looking to bring in a new or used car to the east African country. It’s that simple. Like any other country, you can simplify the process by partnering with a Kenyan clearance and forwarding agency to take care of the documentation process and other things that can help you export cars smoothly to Kenya.
