As a SACU member, Namibia applies the Common External Tariff (CET) to non-SACU imports. Vehicles sourced from South Africa enter duty-free, while direct imports from Japan face customs duty, excise, and VAT at 15%. Here is the full breakdown.
Duty Components
| Component | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Customs duty (SACU CET) | 0–25% | Depends on HS tariff code; duty-free if SACU-origin |
| Excise duty | 0–37% | Sliding scale by age and engine size |
| VAT | 15% | Standard rate on CIF + duties |
| CO2 levy | Variable | Based on engine capacity for newer vehicles |
Excise Duty by Age & Engine
Namibia applies an excise duty (also called "additional duty") that increases with vehicle age and engine size:
| Age | < 2000cc | ≥ 2000cc |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5 years | 0% | 0% |
| 5–8 years | 20% | 22% |
| 8–10 years | 30% | 35% |
| 10+ years | 37% | 37% |
Note: Vehicles older than 10 years may also face additional restrictions. Namibia has a de facto 10-year age limit for used imports, though exceptions exist for returning residents and special permits.
LHD vs RHD in Namibia
Namibia drives on the left, and RHD is standard. However, left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles may be imported under certain conditions — mainly for diplomatic use, special-purpose vehicles, or with a special permit from the Transport Commission. LHD vehicles require additional paperwork and fees.
The MVIP Import Permit
Before importing a vehicle into Namibia, you must apply for a Motor Vehicle Import Permit (MVIP) from the Namibian Transport Commission. This is a critical step that must be completed BEFORE the vehicle is shipped.
- Apply at least 4–6 weeks before shipping
- Provide vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN, engine number)
- Include proof of ownership and purchase invoice
- Pay the MVIP application fee (varies by vehicle value)
- The permit is valid for 6 months from date of issue
Returning Resident Rules
Namibian citizens and permanent residents returning after 12+ months abroad can import one vehicle duty-free, provided they owned and used it for at least 12 months before returning. The vehicle must arrive within 6 months of the owner's return.
We supply Namibian buyers with Japan-used vehicles from Durban. Get your complete landed-cost estimate including MVIP and duties.
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