Import regulations for Japanese used vehicles in Swaziland

Japan is the biggest exporter of used vehicles in the world. Many countries across the world import Japanese used vehicles and Africa is among one of the leading importer of Japanese vehicles. Almost all countries in the continent import used Japanese vehicles. Lying in Southern Africa between Mozambique and South Africa, Swaziland import used vehicles from Japan. The reason that Swazis are attracted towards used vehicles from Japan is that they get a good vehicle at cost price around 50% less than that of new ones. Even the duties on used vehicles are less than that of on new vehicles. Japan has been an important source of export of used cars and other vehicles. Japanese vehicles are famous around the world for their reliability, comfort and durability.

Large numbers of Japanese imported second hand vehicles can be seen on the roads of Swaziland. The presence of online used cars portals has made the import of used vehicles from Japan an easy process. These portals provide thousands of used car stocks of most reliable and experienced exporters in Japan. Used vehicles from Japan, imported to Swaziland must meet the country’s safety and regulation standard to drive on the roads. Importation of only right hand drive vehicles is allowed in the country. Left hand drive vehicles and vehicles that are over 15 years are prohibited to be imported in Swaziland.

Documents required for vehicle importation:-

• Registration documents
• Commercial Invoice
• DA 304S Form
• Bill of Lading
• Interpol Clearance
• Import Certificate

Duties and Taxes:-

Used vehicle imported in Swaziland are subjected to duties and taxes. Import tax rates on vehicles are a VAT of 14% of the total value of the vehicle and the custom duty ranges from 0 to 40% depending on the CIF of the vehicle.

Concession to returning residents or new residents provided the following conditions are met:-

• One motor vehicle per family may be imported.
• The vehicle imported must have been the personal property of the importer.
• The vehicle imported should be used for personal use only.
• The importer must have owned the vehicle for at least a year before importing its departure.
• New residents must obtain permanent residence in Swaziland.
• Returning residents must have originally emigrated from Swaziland; obtained residents' status abroad; and are returning to Swaziland permanently.
• If the vehicle have been owned and used for a period of less than twelve months prior to departure, then the amount of duty rebated will be reduced pro-rata, according to the number of days less than 12 months.
• An application for an import permit must be obtained prior to shipment of the vehicle to Swaziland.

Note: - If any of the above conditions are violated, then authorities have the right to seize the vehicle.

Shipping Port-

Used vehicle in Swaziland are shipped through Durban port (South Africa). Generally, RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) shipping method is used for vehicle shipment. However, on request of customers more expensive yet safe method of shipment, container shipment method is used.