Ethiopia Import Regulations

General Information & Import Rules

• • Who Can Import: Private individuals and registered organizations (NGOs, etc.).
• • Drive Orientation: Only Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are permitted in Ethiopia.
• • Age Restriction: There is currently no age limit for imported used vehicles.
• • Inspection: No pre-shipment inspection is required.

Shipping & Logistics

• • Destination Port: Djibouti.
• • Shipment Details: Approximately 21–30 days via container.
• • Vessel Schedule: Weekly frequency.

Duties & Taxes (Passenger Vehicles)

• • Customs Duty: 35% standard for spark-ignition engines.
• • Excise Tax (1000–1300 CC): 30%.
• • Excise Tax (1300–1800 CC): 60%.
• • Excise Tax (> 3000 CC): 100%.
• • Surplex Tax: A flat 10% applies to passenger vehicles.

Commercial & Public Transport

• • Goods Transport: 10% Duty; 0% Excise and Surplus Tax.
• • Public Transport (15+ seats): 10% Duty; 0% Excise and Surplus Tax.

Required Documentation

• • Original Certificate of Title and Registration.
• • Commercial Invoice or Purchase Receipt.
• • Driver’s License and International Insurance Policy.
• • Original Bill of Lading (OBL) with full vehicle details.
• • Road Authority / Transport Ministry Authorization.
• • Letter of Support (required for NGOs and organizations).