Cost of Importing a Car From Japan to Kenya in 2026: Duties, Process and Timeline
How KRA calculates import duty, excise and VAT, the 8-year rule, inspection, shipping and clearing -- with a worked example.
Most second-hand cars on Kenyan roads came from Japan, and importing directly can save a lot compared with buying from a local yard — if you understand the costs. The price you see on a Japanese auction or exporter site is only part of the total. Here is everything that gets added on the way to Mombasa and your driveway.
The Rules First
- Age limit: vehicles must not be more than 8 years old from the year of first registration when they arrive. A car first registered in 2019 can be imported in 2026 but not in 2028.
- Right-hand drive only, for most vehicles.
- Pre-shipment inspection in Japan by KEBS-appointed inspectors is mandatory, and the car must pass a roadworthiness and radiation check.
How Duties Are Calculated
KRA does not tax the price you paid. It uses the Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) schedule, depreciates it by age, and derives the customs value. Then:
| Charge | Rate |
|---|---|
| Import duty | 25% of customs value |
| Excise duty | 20% (smaller engines, up to 1500cc petrol), 25% (mid-size engines), 35% (above 3000cc) |
| VAT | 16% of customs value plus import and excise duty |
| Import Declaration Fee and Railway Development Levy | A few percent of customs value combined |
Because each tax is charged on top of the previous ones, taxes often total roughly as much as, or more than, the car's customs value. Use KRA's published CRSP and a clearing agent's calculator for an accurate figure before you buy.
Other Costs to Budget For
| Item | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Car price (FOB) | Depends on model, year and condition |
| Shipping to Mombasa (RoRo) | USD 800 — 1,500 for a standard car |
| Inspection | Included or about USD 200 |
| Port, KPA and shipping-line charges | KES 30,000 — 70,000 |
| Clearing agent fees | KES 20,000 — 50,000 |
| Registration, number plates and logbook | Set by NTSA |
| Transport Mombasa to Nairobi | KES 15,000 — 35,000 by carrier |
| Insurance | Comprehensive is usually 3.5 — 6% of value per year |
The Process Step by Step
- Choose a reputable exporter or auction agent and confirm the year of first registration.
- Pay for the car and shipping; receive the bill of lading and inspection certificate.
- Appoint a licensed clearing agent in Mombasa.
- The agent lodges the import entry with KRA; duties are calculated and paid.
- The car is released from the port and registered with NTSA.
- Collect number plates and the logbook, now issued digitally on eCitizen.
Shipping takes about three to five weeks; clearing usually one to two weeks if documents are in order.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying a car that will exceed 8 years by the time it lands
- Ignoring the CRSP value and underestimating duty
- Sending money to unverified exporters
- Using an unlicensed clearing agent
- Forgetting demurrage costs if clearing is delayed
Popular Import Models and Why
Kenyan importers favour models with good fuel economy, easy spare parts availability and strong resale value — such as the Toyota Axio, Fielder, Vitz, Premio, Harrier and Prado, Mazda Demio and CX-5, Nissan Note and X-Trail, Subaru Forester and Honda Fit. Engine size matters doubly: it affects fuel costs and the excise duty rate, so a 1,500cc car is usually far cheaper to import than a 2,500cc version of a similar vehicle.
Using a Local Dealer vs Importing Directly
| Option | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Import directly | Choice of exact model and condition; potential savings | You manage risk, timelines and clearing |
| Import through an agent | Agent handles sourcing and clearing | Agent fees; choose a reputable agent |
| Buy from a local yard | See and test the car before paying; immediate | Price includes the dealer's margin |
After the Car Arrives
Budget for a full service, new tyres if needed, and fitting any accessories. Register for insurance before driving, and transfer the logbook into your name if the car was registered by an agent — see our logbook transfer guide. Keep all import, duty and clearing documents; you will need them when you sell.
Car Import Costs -- FAQ
How much is import duty on a car in Kenya?
Import duty is 25% of the customs value, plus excise duty of 20 to 35% depending on engine size, VAT at 16% and smaller levies. KRA calculates the customs value from its CRSP schedule.
What is the 8-year rule for importing cars into Kenya?
Imported used vehicles must not be more than eight years old, counted from the year of first registration, when they arrive in Kenya.
How long does it take to import a car from Japan to Kenya?
Typically five to eight weeks in total: three to five weeks of shipping plus one to two weeks for clearing and registration.
Is it cheaper to import a car or buy locally in Kenya?
Importing directly is often cheaper for the same model and condition, but it involves risk and waiting time. Local yards cost more but let you inspect the car first.
Can I import a left-hand drive car into Kenya?
Ordinary left-hand drive vehicles are generally not allowed for private use. Kenya drives on the left and requires right-hand drive vehicles, with limited exceptions.
Final Thoughts
Importing a car from Japan can be good value, but taxes and charges often double the car's price on paper. Check the year of first registration, calculate duty from KRA's CRSP before buying, use reputable exporters and licensed clearing agents, and budget for every step.