Import rules and regulations for Japanese used vehicles in Jamaica

Buying a new car is every man’s dream; however is not everyone’s cup of tea. It requires a lot of cost cutting. So, many car lovers choose the option of used car to get the car of their dream as for them buying a new one is not within their financial reach. When it comes to buying a used car, Japan is the name that pops up in everyone’s mind. Japanese vehicles are famous for their reliability, comfort and durability. With every passing day, the popularity of Japanese used vehicles is increasing. Almost every country in the world import used vehicle from Japan. Likewise, most cars in Jamaica are imported from Japan only. Large number of second hand cars can be seen on the roads of Jamaica.

In Jamaica, the Trade Board Limited, a Government agency mainly administered the Motor Vehicle importation. Used vehicles from Japan, imported to Jamaica must be registered, insured and roadworthy to drive on the roads. Below are the details of restrictions, documents required and taxes imposed while importing a Japanese used vehicle in Jamaica.

Age limit on importation of motor vehicles:-
According to new age limit for the importation of used vehicles, imported cars should not be more than Five years old. For pickups age restriction is Six years, whereas for used Trucks, Trailers and other heavy duty equipments it is Ten years.
Special purpose vehicles such as Ambulance, Fire Brigade, and Town cars, vehicles modified for physically challenged people should not be more than Ten years of age.

Documents required for importing vehicle:-

• Import license issued by the Trade Board Limited, which authorizes the importation of the motor vehicle. Before importing vehicle to Jamaica, importer should posses an import license.
• Certificate of Title: The document issued by the government of the country where the vehicle was purchased, to the owner of the vehicle.
• Two identification proof such as Passport, Driver's license, Nation Identification.
• Invoice: An invoice from the supplier is necessary for all vehicles importation.
• Bill of Sight: It contains details regarding the imported motor vehicle. It is a Customs certified document, prepared and signed by the dealer.
• Bill of Lading
• Tax Compliance- It will be issued by Tax Administration Certificate Services Department.
• Odometer inspection statement.
• Import Entry (C87): This import document should be presented to Customs by the broker and should contain all the details involving the vehicle, importer name, shipping information and the responsibilities.
• Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN) - A nine digit unique identification number obtained from Revenue Board.
• Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC) - A document obtained from Revenue Board as a proof that certifies that payments Certificate of tax liabilities and wage-related statutory deductions are up-to-date.

Import Duties and Taxes:-
While importing used vehicle in Jamaica, it is important to know the duties and taxes. Below is a list of the different types of duties, taxes and fees, applicable to used vehicles imported.

• Import duty ranges from 10-40%. It depends upon the commodity being imported.
• General Consumption Tax (GCT) -
  It is applicable on all items except for Zero-rated and Exempted items.
  Current Rates: 17.5% on used vehicles.
• Special Consumption Tax (SCT)-
  It is applicable to only some petroleum products. SCT rates vary depending on the item.
• Common External Tariff (CET)-
  The rate of CET varies depending on the vehicle being imported.
  Current CET is 20% on Cars and Pick-ups whereas for Trucks, Vans and Buses CET is 10%.
• Environmental Levy (ENVL)-
  This will be applicable on all items that will have an impact on the environment. The rate for ENVL is 0.5% and is calculated on CIF value.

To drive the vehicle on the road:-

After paying the required fee and clearing the vehicle at the Revenue Service Centre or Tax Collectorate, Motor Vehicle Examination Depot should certify the vehicle with a Certificate of Fitness to indicate that the vehicle matches with Jamaican standards.
For registering the vehicle, Certificate of Fitness with the import entry documentation is required. The documents should be taken to the Revenue Service Center/ Tax Collectorate to register the vehicle and other purpose.

Other relevant Information:-

• Importation of right-hand drive vehicles is allowed in Jamaica.
• Every three years, Jamaica's residents or returning Individuals can import up to two motor vehicles; one motorcar and one light commercial vehicle or any two light commercial vehicles.
• Proof of immigration status such as a Work Permit must be shown by Non-Jamaicans.
• Returning residents may import an older car, if they have owned the vehicle for at least 6 months and approved by the Trade Board.
  A warranty of 90 days is required if buyer want to sell the used vehicle.
• Importing of special/classic/limited-edition cars requires a special license issued by Trade Board with a support application from Jamaican Classic Car Club.

Shipping Port:-
The most recommended port for shipments from Japan going to Jamaica is Kingston. The most common shipping method RoRo (Roll-on, Roll-off) method is used for vehicle shipment. However, on request of customers more expensive shipping method of containers is arranged.