Uganda.
Import with clarity.

Uganda is one of East Africa's fastest-growing markets for imported Japanese vehicles. Japanese cars are popular for their durability, affordability, fuel efficiency, and easy availability of spare parts.

Before importing a vehicle from Japan, it is important to understand Uganda's import regulations, taxes, inspection requirements, and registration procedures.

Yes. Individuals and businesses can legally import new and used vehicles from Japan into Uganda, provided they comply with the requirements of the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), and other relevant authorities.

Yes. Japanese vehicles dominate Uganda's used vehicle market due to their reliability, affordability, and low maintenance costs. Popular brands include:

• Toyota
• Nissan
• Honda
• Subaru
• Mazda
• Mitsubishi
• Suzuki
• Isuzu Popular models include:
• Toyota Premio
• Toyota Harrier
• Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
• Toyota Corolla
• Toyota Hilux
• Toyota HiAce
• Subaru Forester
• Nissan X-Trail

As of 2026, Uganda generally permits the import of used vehicles up to 15 years old from the year of manufacture under the Traffic and Road Safety (Amendment) Act. Importers should always verify the latest position with the Uganda Revenue Authority before purchasing, as policy updates may occur.

Uganda drives on the left-hand side of the road, making Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Japanese vehicles the preferred and most practical choice.

Imported used vehicles are subject to conformity and roadworthiness requirements administered by the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). Depending on the applicable regulations and shipment date, inspections may involve:

• Roadworthiness assessment
• Mechanical condition
• Vehicle identification verification
• Safety equipment inspection
• Odometer verification
• Structural condition Importers should confirm the current inspection procedure before shipment, as Uganda has updated its inspection process in recent years.

Importers generally require:

• Original Bill of Lading
• Commercial Invoice
• Japanese Export Certificate
• Purchase Invoice
• Packing List
• Certificate of Inspection or Conformity (where applicable)
• Tax Identification Number (TIN)
• Customs Declaration
• Proof of payment
• Insurance documents
• Import Permit (if required) Additional documentation may be requested depending on the vehicle category and importer.

Imported vehicles are generally subject to:

• Import Duty
• Value Added Tax (VAT)
• Withholding Tax
• Import Declaration Fee
• Excise Duty (where applicable)
• Port handling and customs clearance charges Taxes are primarily calculated based on the Customs Value (CIF – Cost, Insurance and Freight) and vary according to:
• Vehicle category
• Engine capacity
• Fuel type
• Customs valuation

Common export ports include:

• Yokohama
• Kobe
• Nagoya
• Osaka Because Uganda is landlocked, vehicles are usually shipped to:
• Port of Mombasa (Kenya), then transported by road or rail to Uganda.
• Port of Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), followed by overland transport. Typical transit time:
• 30–45 days, depending on the shipping route and inland transportation.

After customs clearance, the importer must:

• Pay all applicable duties and taxes.
• Complete customs clearance through URA.
• Obtain any required UNBS conformity approval.
• Register the vehicle with the relevant licensing authority.
• Obtain Ugandan number plates.
• Purchase compulsory third-party motor vehicle insurance before using the vehicle on public roads.

• Choose a vehicle that complies with Uganda's current age limit.
• Verify the Japanese auction inspection sheet and maintenance history.
• Confirm inspection and conformity requirements before shipment.
• Estimate all taxes and inland transportation costs before purchasing.
• Buy only from a reputable Japanese exporter with experience shipping to Uganda.

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

• Access to thousands of Japanese auction vehicles
• Cars, motorcycles, trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles
• Professional auction bidding services
• Independent vehicle inspections
• Export documentation
• International shipping arrangements
• Assistance with inspection and conformity requirements
• Customs documentation support
• Personal Buying Agent service
• Secure international payment assistance
• End-to-end 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. Uganda's import regulations, vehicle age limits, inspection requirements, customs duties, taxes, and registration procedures may change without prior notice.

Buyers are responsible for confirming the latest import requirements with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), 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.