If you’re planning to import a car into Kenya this year, brace yourself for a significant change. The Kenya Car Import Duty 2025 has been revised, bringing higher costs for used and hybrid vehicles. This update is a part of a broader government strategy aimed at generating revenue and promoting newer, eco-friendly vehicles.
What’s Changing in 2025?
The updated duty structure affects a wide range of car imports:
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Second-hand vehicles (especially 5–8 years old)
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Hybrid cars
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High engine capacity luxury models
These changes fall under the new Kenya Car Import Duty 2025 framework, and they’re already impacting import decisions.
New Car Import Duty Rates for 2025
Here’s a clear comparison of the old vs. new import duty rates:
| Vehicle Type | Previous Duty Rate | 2025 Updated Duty Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Standard used cars (5–8 yrs) | 25% | 35% |
| Used hybrid vehicles | 10% | 20% |
| Luxury cars (3000cc+) | 30% | 40% |
| Brand new vehicles | 25% | 25% (no change) |
This table reflects the core changes introduced under the Kenya Car Import Duty 2025 policy.
What It Means for Car Importers
If you’re eyeing the second-hand car market, the new rules mean:
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Increased overall costs due to a 10% duty hike on older models
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Hybrid cars are less tax-friendly, reducing green incentives
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Luxury vehicles now attract steeper taxes, pushing up end-user prices
Why Has the Duty Been Increased?
The Kenyan government has outlined several justifications for these changes:
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To boost tax revenue for public projects
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To reduce environmental impact by discouraging older vehicles
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To align with regional trade standards and streamline automotive imports
Tips to Cut Down Import Costs
If you still plan to import a vehicle under the 2025 rules, consider the following:
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Opt for newer vehicles (less than 3 years old) where duties remain lower
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Compare local dealership prices, which may now be more competitive
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Use licensed clearing agents to avoid hidden fees and procedural delays
FAQs
What is the current import duty for second-hand cars in Kenya?
As per the Kenya Car Import Duty 2025, second-hand vehicles that are 5–8 years old now attract a 35% import duty, up from the previous 25%.
Are hybrid vehicles still economical to import?
Not quite. Hybrid car import duty has doubled from 10% to 20%, making them more expensive under the new second-hand vehicle tax in Kenya.
Does the second-hand vehicle tax in Kenya apply to electric vehicles?
Fully electric vehicles currently enjoy some duty exemptions. However, these are subject to change in future policies and are not the focus of the 2025 update.
Can I import a car older than 8 years?
No, the law still prohibits the import of vehicles older than 8 years from the date of first registration. This regulation remains unchanged in 2025.
Final Thoughts
The updated Kenya Car Import Duty 2025 may push up costs, especially for second-hand and hybrid cars. While the move is aimed at revenue generation and environmental goals, it significantly affects affordability. Make sure to review your options carefully before deciding to import a vehicle this year.
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Sachin is a dedicated writer specializing in education, career, and recruitment topics, delivering clear and actionable insights to empower readers.