Import rules and regulations for Japanese used vehicles in South Sudan

A landlocked country located in East Africa, South Sudan is an importer of Japanese used vehicles. Like other countries across the world, people of South Sudan prefer Japanese vehicles as they are reliable, high on quality, and safe to drive. With every passing day, the popularity of Japanese used vehicles is increasing. Large numbers of second hand cars are imported in South Sudan from Japan. So, thinking of importing a used car from Japan and do not know what to do? Here are few guidelines that should be followed cautiously and timely, so that there will be no delays in the shipment of goods.

There is no specified age limitation on used vehicles imported in South Sudan. It is allowed to import both left and right hand drive vehicles in South Sudan, though driving is on the right hand side. There is no mandatory pre-shipment inspection on used vehicles imported in South Sudan. However, importers are advised to have a Pre-shipment Inspection Certificate issued by International Cargo Inspectors registered by SSMO (Sudanese Standards and Metrology Organization). SSMO might conduct a double check inspection on the used vehicle. Used vehicle importers must pay the required duties, taxes and fees and receive an official release order for the goods. Duties, taxes and fees should be paid before releasing the goods. Exemption on taxes is provided by Central Government.

Documents required for port clearance:-

• Original Certificate of Title
• Original Registration certificate
• Supplier’s Invoice(s)
• Duties and Taxes exemption certificate, if any
• Bill of Lading (BoL)
• Driver’s License and International Insurance Policy
• Diplomatic exemption documents

All importers need registration with the Import/Export Registry at the Ministry of Foreign Trade. All commercial imports into Sudan require an Import Declaration Form (IDF). When the importer applies for an Import Declaration Form (IDF), the information to be filled in is provided by the supplier with a Proforma Invoice.

The following are the data required in the Proforma Invoice:-

• Specification and clear description of the quantity and quality of the goods.
• Freight on Board (FOB) value
• Freight Value (If applicable)
• Currency of Payment
• Mode of Transportation
• Country of Origin of the goods issued by the competent authority in the Country of origin.
• Insurance value (if applicable)

For commercial vehicle importation, importers or their appointed customs agent must present-

• Import Declaration Form (IDF)
• Commercial Certificate of Origin
• Quarantine License (where necessary)
• Sudanese Standards and Metrology Organization (SSMO) requirements or other documents for specific type of goods and complete bank formalities.

Shipping Port-
Generally import of used vehicles in South Sudan is done through Port Sudan. RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) a common shipping method is used for vehicles shipment. On request of importers, container method is used.