Sri Lanka.
Import with clarity.

Sri Lanka has long been one of the leading destinations for Japanese vehicles due to their exceptional reliability, fuel efficiency, and resale value.

Following the gradual relaxation of vehicle import restrictions, imports are now permitted subject to strict eligibility, age, emissions, and customs requirements.

Yes. Sri Lanka permits the import of new and used vehicles from Japan, provided they comply with current import regulations, age limits, emission standards, and customs procedures. Import policies have been updated as restrictions introduced in previous years were progressively relaxed in 2026.

Japanese vehicles are among the most sought-after in Sri Lanka because of their:

• Excellent reliability
• High fuel efficiency
• Strong resale value
• Advanced safety features
• Availability of spare parts Popular brands include:
• Toyota
• Honda
• Nissan
• Suzuki
• Mazda
• Mitsubishi
• Daihatsu
• Isuzu Popular models include:
• Toyota Aqua
• Toyota Prius
• Toyota Corolla
• Toyota Vitz
• Honda Fit
• Suzuki Wagon R
• Nissan Note
• Toyota HiAce

Sri Lanka imposes maximum age limits depending on the vehicle category.

Sri Lanka permits Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles only for most passenger vehicle categories. Japanese vehicles are therefore fully compatible with Sri Lankan road regulations.

All used vehicles exported from Japan to Sri Lanka must undergo a Japan Auto Appraisal Institute (JAAI) roadworthiness inspection before shipment. The inspection generally includes:

• Mechanical condition
• Structural integrity
• Accident history
• Odometer verification
• Safety equipment
• General roadworthiness Vehicles that fail inspection may not qualify for import.

Imported vehicles must comply with Sri Lanka's environmental regulations. Current policies require compliance with modern emission standards, and many newly imported petrol and diesel vehicles are expected to meet Euro 6 or equivalent requirements.

Importers generally need:

• Original Bill of Lading
• Commercial Invoice
• Japanese Export Certificate
• Purchase Invoice
• Packing List
• JAAI Inspection Certificate
• Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
• Import Permit (where required)
• Letter of Credit (LC), where applicable
• Customs Declaration
• Insurance documents
• Proof of payment Additional documentation may be requested depending on the vehicle category and import scheme.

Vehicle imports may be subject to:

• Import Duty
• Excise Duty
• Value Added Tax (VAT), where applicable
• Port and Airport Levy (PAL), if applicable
• Luxury or Ad Valorem Taxes (depending on vehicle category)
• Port handling and customs clearance charges The final tax amount depends on:
• Engine capacity (cc)
• Fuel type
• Vehicle value
• Vehicle category
• Hybrid or electric status
• Applicable government incentives Duty rates are revised periodically, so importers should confirm the latest rates before purchase.

Common export ports include:

• Yokohama
• Kobe
• Nagoya
• Osaka Vehicles are typically shipped to:

After customs clearance, the importer must:

• Pay all applicable duties and taxes
• Complete customs clearance
• Obtain vehicle registration through the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT)
• Complete emissions and roadworthiness requirements
• Obtain registration certificate and number plates
• Arrange vehicle insurance before driving

• Verify the auction inspection sheet.
• Ensure the vehicle complies with Sri Lanka's age limits.
• Confirm the vehicle has a valid JAAI inspection certificate.
• Check accident history and mileage.
• Estimate total import duties before purchase.
• Purchase only from a reputable Japanese exporter.

360 Moto provides a complete export solution for customers importing vehicles from Japan to Sri Lanka, including:

• Access to thousands of Japanese auction vehicles
• Cars, motorcycles, trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles
• Professional auction bidding services
• Independent vehicle inspections
• JAAI inspection assistance
• Export documentation
• International shipping arrangements
• Customs documentation support
• Personal Buying Agent service
• Secure international payment assistance
• Ongoing customer support from purchase to delivery

This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, customs, tax, or import advice.

Sri Lanka's import regulations, eligibility requirements, customs duties, taxes, inspection procedures, vehicle age limits, emission standards, and registration requirements may change without prior notice.

Buyers are responsible for confirming the latest import requirements with Sri Lanka Customs, the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), and other relevant government authorities before purchasing or importing any vehicle.

While 360 Moto strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee that all regulations, duty rates, or procedures remain unchanged at the time of import.