How to Import an Electric Car to Uganda in 2025 – A 7-Step Process - EV24.africa

Importing an electric car to Uganda in 2025 involves navigating updated regulations, taxes, and logistical steps. This guide simplifies the process into seven key steps:

Understand Import Rules: Uganda reinstated a 25% import duty on electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids in 2024. Vehicles must be under 15 years old and meet Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) requirements.
Determine Importer Category: Individual buyers pay full duties, while companies contributing to local EV manufacturing or infrastructure may qualify for tax exemptions.
Find Trusted Suppliers: Choose suppliers familiar with Uganda’s requirements, ensuring proper documentation and compliance.
Calculate Total Costs: Budget for the vehicle price, 25% import duty, 18% VAT, shipping, insurance, and other fees.
Prepare Documents: Gather essential paperwork, including a Certificate of Conformity (COC), Tax Identification Number (TIN), and pre-shipment inspection certificates.
Clear Customs and Register: Work with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to clear customs, pay taxes, and register your vehicle.
Set Up Charging and Maintenance: Install a home charging station and ensure access to maintenance services and spare parts.

EV adoption stalls as import taxes return

Step 1: Learn Uganda’s EV Import Rules and Requirements

If you’re planning to import an electric vehicle (EV) into Uganda, it’s essential to understand the country’s import regulations. Since 2024, a 25% import duty has been applied to electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as electric motorcycles, following updates to the East African Community (EAC) Common External Tariff. This duty significantly impacts the overall cost of bringing an EV into the country, making it crucial to grasp the associated costs, exemptions, and compliance standards.

Import Duties and Taxes

Uganda’s 25% import duty applies to all fully assembled electric vehicles, hybrids, and electric motorcycles. Moses Kaggwa, Director of Economic Affairs, elaborated on this policy:

"We were allowed to reinstate the import duty on fully built electric bikes, hybrid vehicles, and electric vehicles during the review of the East African Community (EAC) Common External Tariff in May 2024."

Before this duty was reinstated, Uganda imported 420 units during the 2023–2024 fiscal year, which included 403 hybrid vehicles and 17 fully electric vehicles.

Exemptions and Incentives

While individual importers and dealers are subject to the full 25% duty, Uganda offers incentives to companies that contribute to the growth of its EV ecosystem. Businesses involved in EV manufacturing, battery production, or charging infrastructure development are exempt from Stamp Duty Tax for the 2024/2025 fiscal year.

To qualify for these incentives, companies must meet specific criteria:

Employ at least 80% local workers.
Use 80% locally sourced raw materials when available.
Meet minimum investment thresholds:
- $10 million for foreign investors.
- $300,000 for Ugandan citizens.
- $150,000 for Ugandan citizens establishing operations outside major urban centers.

Age Limits and Environmental Standards

Uganda strictly enforces a 15-year age limit on imported vehicles. For instance, in 2025, only electric vehicles manufactured in 2010 or later will be eligible for import. Customs officials verify the vehicle’s manufacturing date through its identification number and accompanying documents.

Additionally, all imported EVs must comply with standards set by the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). A Certificate of Conformance (COC) may be required to ensure the vehicle meets technical and safety standards. To avoid complications, it’s best to focus on importing new or nearly new electric vehicles.

Step 2: Determine Your Importer Category and Qualification

Understanding your importer category is essential when estimating costs and potential tax benefits. Uganda’s import system differentiates between various types of importers, prioritizing tax incentives for businesses that contribute to local manufacturing rather than those importing fully assembled vehicles. Let’s break down the recognized importer categories and what they mean for you.

Types of Importers

Uganda categorizes electric vehicle (EV) importers into three main groups, each with distinct obligations and opportunities.

Individual buyers: If you’re importing an EV for personal use, you’ll fall into this category. Individual buyers are required to pay the full 25% import duty, along with all applicable taxes and fees. Unfortunately, no duty reductions are available for personal-use imports at this time.
Commercial dealers: Businesses importing EVs for resale are considered commercial dealers. Like individual buyers, they must pay the full 25% duty on each vehicle. Additionally, they are required to register with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and maintain detailed records for every imported unit.
Local manufacturers and infrastructure developers: This group includes companies investing in Uganda’s EV ecosystem. Whether assembling electric vehicles locally, manufacturing EV batteries, producing electric motorcycles, or building charging stations, these businesses are eligible for tax incentives aimed at fostering local industry growth.

While individual buyers and dealers face the full range of duties and taxes, local manufacturers and infrastructure developers can take advantage of significant tax benefits.

Qualifying for Tax Reductions or Exemptions

If you’re importing fully assembled EVs, plan for the full 25% duty and associated taxes – there are no exemptions for this category. However, businesses contributing to Uganda’s EV manufacturing and infrastructure development can unlock substantial tax breaks.

For entities involved in producing electric vehicles, fabricating motorcycles, manufacturing batteries, or developing charging equipment, the government offers three key benefits:

Income tax holiday: A break from income tax obligations.
VAT exemption: Exemption from Value Added Tax on products and services.
Stamp Duty Tax exemption: No Stamp Duty Tax for the 2024/2025 fiscal year.

To qualify for these incentives, businesses must meet specific requirements, such as employing at least 80% local workers and fulfilling minimum investment thresholds outlined in Step 1.

Regardless of your importer type, it’s essential to budget carefully. Uganda’s policies clearly favor businesses that contribute to building local EV manufacturing and infrastructure over those focused solely on importing finished products.

Step 3: Find Trusted EV Suppliers and Choose Your Vehicle

After figuring out your importer category and understanding the tax implications, the next step is to locate a reliable supplier and pick an electric vehicle (EV) that suits Uganda’s market and driving conditions.

Selecting Trusted Suppliers

Choosing the right supplier is crucial to avoid costly mistakes. Both well-established and newer EV suppliers come with their own benefits and risks, so doing your homework here is essential.

Check supplier credentials and experience. Look for suppliers with recognized certifications and a proven track record, especially with African clients. Verify their manufacturing standards, warranty terms, and ability to meet Uganda’s import requirements. Suppliers who have experience exporting to East Africa are often familiar with the necessary documentation to avoid delays during customs clearance.

Leverage established trade platforms. Platforms like EV24.africa provide access to vetted suppliers, transparent pricing, and support tailored for East Africa. These platforms offer a wide range of brands – such as Tesla, BYD, Volkswagen, XPeng, and Nissan – and often assist with critical import steps.

"From customs clearance to local registration, we handle everything to ensure a smooth import process." – EV24.africa

Using such platforms also gives you access to customer reviews and expert advice, helping you navigate Uganda’s regulatory landscape, including the recently reinstated 25% import duty.

Gauge supplier knowledge of Uganda’s regulations. Ask suppliers directly about their familiarity with Uganda’s tax policies and customs processes. They should be well-versed in the 25% import duty, the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVOC) Program, and the specific requirements for different types of importers. If they struggle to answer these questions, it’s a red flag.

Seek references from past clients. Reach out to other importers who have worked with the supplier, especially those who’ve imported vehicles to Uganda or nearby countries. Their feedback on vehicle quality, documentation accuracy, and post-sale support can provide valuable insights.

Consider local manufacturers. Local EV manufacturers can be a good alternative, offering competitive pricing and easier access to maintenance services.

Once you’ve chosen a reliable supplier, the next step is selecting an EV model that aligns with Uganda’s market and driving conditions.

Choosing the Right EV Model

Picking the right EV involves balancing cost, performance, and practicality, especially given Uganda’s unique market dynamics.

Understand market trends and pricing shifts. During the 2023–2024 fiscal year, Uganda imported 420 electric vehicles: 403 hybrids and only 17 fully electric models. This heavy preference for hybrids shows that Ugandan buyers are leaning toward hybrid technology during the country’s EV transition. However, the reintroduction of the 25% import duty has significantly raised prices. For instance, a Nissan Leaf that once cost $55,000 USD (UGX 204.3 million) now costs $68,750 USD (UGX 255.3 million) – an increase of $13,750 USD due to the duty.

Evaluate total cost of ownership. Beyond the sticker price, consider factors like battery range, vehicle size, and the availability of spare parts and maintenance services in East Africa. Battery degradation in older vehicles is another critical issue, as it can lead to shorter ranges and expensive replacements. Generally, newer models (no older than 3–5 years) are a safer bet.

Explore affordable and mid-range options. Chinese manufacturers dominate 35% of global EV exports, offering budget-friendly models. Examples include the BYD Dolphin Active at $11,800 USD, the Geely Panda Mini Base at $5,880 USD, and the Leapmotor T03 at $12,000 USD. Mid-range options like the BYD Song Plus EV ($18,680 USD) and Leapmotor C10 ($18,900 USD) provide more features, while premium models such as the BYD Atto 3 2025 are priced at $47,500 USD. Keep in mind, these base prices exclude additional costs like the 25% import duty, shipping, and customs fees.

Choose models with regional support. Opt for vehicles from manufacturers with service centers or authorized dealers in Uganda or neighboring countries. This ensures access to spare parts, skilled technicians, and often better warranty coverage. Brands like Nissan, for example, may have higher upfront costs but offer reliable support networks.

Ensure compliance with Uganda’s regulations. Your chosen vehicle must come with a Certificate of Conformity (COC) or Certificate of Road Worthiness (CRW) from its country of origin. These documents are mandatory under Uganda’s PVOC Program. Additionally, verify that the vehicle meets international safety and emission standards, such as Euro 4.

Taking the time to carefully research suppliers and vehicles will help you make an informed decision that aligns with Uganda’s regulations and your budget. Step 4 will guide you in calculating the full costs of importing your EV.

Step 4: Calculate Your Total Import Costs

After selecting your vehicle and supplier, the next step is to get a clear picture of your total expenses. Many first-time importers focus only on the purchase price, overlooking other essential costs like taxes, duties, and shipping. By factoring in all these elements from the beginning, you can avoid financial surprises and plan more effectively. Below is a detailed breakdown of the main cost components to help you budget accurately.

Complete Cost Breakdown

When importing an electric car to Uganda, the costs go far beyond the vehicle’s base price. Here’s what you need to account for:

Import Duty:
Uganda applies a 25% import duty on fully electric vehicles, hybrid cars, and electric motorcycles. This duty is based on the customs-assessed value, which is determined by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and may not match the purchase price. For instance, in June 2024, the price of a Nissan Leaf increased by over UGX 51 million (around $13,750 USD), from UGX 204.3 million ($55,000 USD) to UGX 255.3 million ($68,750 USD). Similarly, a used EV priced at $20,000 USD would incur an additional $5,000 USD in import duty (25%).

Additional Taxes:
Imported vehicles are subject to several taxes: an 18% Value Added Tax (VAT), a 15% non-reclaimable withholding tax, and a 1.5% infrastructure tax to support railway development. These taxes are calculated on the assessed value plus the import duty.

Shipping and Insurance:
The CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) includes the FOB (Free On Board) price, insurance, shipping, and inspection costs. The delivery point – whether Mombasa, Malaba, or Kampala – affects the final CIF cost. Shipping and insurance typically range from $2,500 USD to $4,500 USD. For example, a Toyota Harrier with an FOB price of $4,633 USD had a CIF value of $7,046 USD upon delivery to Kampala.

Pre-Inspection Costs:
Pre-inspection is mandatory for all vehicle imports into Uganda to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. Neglecting this step can lead to penalties, so it’s crucial to include this cost in your budget.

Local Clearing and Registration Fees:
Once your vehicle arrives in Uganda, clearing and forwarding fees – ranging from $500 USD to $1,000 USD – will cover customs documentation and processing. After customs clearance, you’ll also need to pay registration fees and an environmental levy. These additional expenses should be factored into your final budget to avoid surprises.

"The purpose of this calculator is to give you an indication of taxes payable for USED motor vehicles. These values are dependent on factors that may vary from time to time, such as the CIF (which is as per the Used Motor Vehicles Indicative Value Guide, available under Tax Topics A-Z under section M), current exchange rates, and tax rates." – URA Motor Vehicle Calculator Disclaimer

Locally Assembled Alternatives:
If you’re looking to save on import duties, consider locally assembled electric vehicles, such as those from Kiira Motors. These vehicles are exempt from the 25% import duty. Starting at approximately $30,000 USD (UGX 110 million), Kiira EVs can be a cost-effective option when compared to imported models.

Currency Exchange and Payment Methods

In addition to fixed fees, currency exchange rates and payment methods can significantly impact your total costs. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Exchange Rate Variations:
Payments to suppliers are typically made using your bank’s current USD-to-UGX rate. However, the URA uses its own monthly pre-determined exchange rates for tax calculations, which can differ from commercial bank rates.

"The dollar exchange rate will depend on that bank’s prevailing rates at that time. Different banks have different dollar exchange rates." – Beebwa Fidel, BE FORWARD Supporter, Uganda

"URA has its own monthly pre-determined USD exchange rates." – Beebwa Fidel, BE FORWARD Supporter, Uganda

For example, when purchasing a Toyota Harrier, an online currency converter might show a CIF of $6,951 USD translating to UGX 25,202,131 at a rate of 1 USD = 3,625.68 UGX. However, the URA might use a different rate, such as 3,612.34 UGX to 1 USD, for tax purposes. These discrepancies mean you’ll need to track both rates throughout the process.

Bank Rates and Fees:
Different banks offer varying exchange rates, and even small differences can add up when transferring large sums. It’s worth shopping around for the best rates and being aware of international transfer fees, which can range from $25 USD to $100 USD or more.

Secure Payment Methods and Monitoring Fluctuations:
For large international transactions, wire transfers through established banks provide reliable buyer protection. Keeping an eye on exchange rate fluctuations during the import process can also help you lock in favorable rates when the UGX strengthens against the USD.

Step 5: Gather and Submit Required Documents

To comply with Uganda’s updated regulations for importing used electric vehicles, you’ll need to assemble specific certificates and documents. Ensure everything is accurate, complete, and prepared in triplicate to avoid unnecessary delays or extra fees.

Required Import Documents

Certificate of Road Worthiness (CRW) or Certificate of Conformity (COC):
Starting March 20, 2025, the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) mandates that all used motor vehicles, including electric ones, must have either a CRW or a COC from the country of origin or export. These certificates are issued through the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) Program. For any Bill of Lading dated after April 14, 2025, compliance with PVoC requirements becomes mandatory. Vehicles without valid CRW or COC certificates will face a 15% surcharge on the CIF value, in addition to standard Destination Inspection fees.

UNBS has partnered with three international inspection companies to handle PVoC services: AUTO TERMINAL JAPAN (ATJ), EAA COMPANY LIMITED, and QUALITY INSPECTION SERVICES INC. JAPAN. These organizations ensure that imported vehicles meet the required standards.

Tax Identification Number (TIN):
A valid TIN is a must for customs clearance. In Uganda, your employer typically helps you obtain one. If you’re clearing your vehicle through Tanzania, you’ll need to register with the Tanzania Revenue Authority to secure a Tanzanian TIN.

Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate:
Before shipping, secure a Road Worthiness Inspection (RWI) certificate from JEVIC. This document confirms that your vehicle meets safety and environmental standards.

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, double-check that they meet customs requirements.

Meeting Customs Compliance Standards

Customs officials will carefully review your paperwork, so accuracy is key. Ensure that details like the vehicle identification number, make, model, and value match across all documents, including the CRW/COC, TIN, and pre-shipment inspection certificate. Consistent and precise documentation helps you avoid delays and extra fees during the clearance process.

Step 6: Complete Customs Clearance and Vehicle Registration

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, the next step is to work directly with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to clear customs and officially register your electric vehicle (EV). This process includes paying duties, undergoing inspections, and securing your Ugandan license plates. With everything in order, you’re ready to move forward.

Clearing Customs

The customs process starts with submitting a Customs Declaration to the URA. This document must include detailed information about your EV, such as its value, origin, destination, and specifications. It’s essential that the details in your declaration match the supporting documents, as inconsistencies can lead to delays or penalties.

Once the declaration is submitted, you’ll need to pay all applicable duties, taxes, and fees. The URA charges a 25% import duty, which is calculated based on the vehicle’s assessed value. Additional costs include Excise Duty, VAT, and an Import Declaration Fee, all of which are also determined by the vehicle’s assessed value.

After payments are made, customs officials will inspect the vehicle to verify its details. This inspection ensures that the make, model, VIN, and overall condition match the declaration and that the vehicle complies with Ugandan standards. Once the inspection is successfully completed, the vehicle is cleared for import.

To navigate this process efficiently, it’s advisable to hire a licensed clearing and forwarding agent. These agents typically charge between $500 and $1,000 to handle the paperwork and coordinate with the URA.

Registering Your Vehicle

Following customs clearance, the next step is to register your EV with the URA to obtain official Ugandan license plates. This involves paying registration fees, number plate fees, and a small environmental levy. The exact amounts may vary depending on your vehicle’s specifications, so it’s wise to budget for these additional costs alongside the import duties and clearing fees.

Once the registration process is complete, the URA will issue your official documents and license plates. These documents are crucial for securing insurance, future vehicle sales, and any dealings with traffic authorities. With your customs clearance and registration finalized, your EV is ready to hit Uganda’s roads, setting the stage for establishing charging and maintenance solutions.

Step	Description	Responsible Authority/Entity
Customs Declaration	Submit details of the vehicle, including value and origin.	Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)
Payment of Duties/Taxes	Pay import duties (25% of assessed value), taxes, and other fees.	Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)
Inspection and Clearance	Customs officials inspect and clear the vehicle for compliance.	Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)
Clearing & Forwarding Fees	Hire a licensed agent to manage paperwork and coordination.	Licensed Clearing & Forwarding Agent
Registration and Number Plates	Register the vehicle and obtain Ugandan license plates.	Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)
Environmental Levy	Pay an environmental fee as part of the registration process.	Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)

Step 7: Arrange Charging and Maintenance Services

Once your EV is registered, it’s time to focus on keeping it running smoothly. This involves setting up reliable charging solutions and ensuring access to maintenance services. These steps are essential to keeping your vehicle in top shape and ready for the road.

Charging Options in Uganda

In Uganda, the public charging network is still developing, which makes installing a home charging station the most practical solution. A home setup allows you to conveniently charge your EV overnight, so it’s ready to go each morning. Make sure to confirm if your supplier offers support for installing the necessary charging infrastructure.

For those planning longer journeys, check the availability of public charging stations, especially in major cities like Kampala, where these facilities are gradually becoming more common.

Finding Maintenance Services and Parts

Electric vehicles generally require less maintenance than traditional gasoline-powered cars. There’s no need for oil changes, spark plug replacements, or exhaust system repairs. Instead, routine maintenance typically involves simpler tasks like checking tires, brakes, and windscreen wipers.

However, ensuring your EV’s reliability goes beyond just charging. Look into the availability of spare parts, warranty coverage, and whether a service network exists in Uganda. If you’re driving a locally manufactured vehicle, such as one from Kiira Motors, you might benefit from direct support for maintenance and parts.

For imported EVs, it’s important to confirm the presence of authorized service centers or skilled mechanics who understand electric vehicles. Keeping detailed service records is also a smart move, as they’ll come in handy for warranty claims and future repairs.

Conclusion

Bringing an electric vehicle (EV) into Uganda in 2025 involves navigating a detailed seven-step process. From understanding the country’s import regulations to setting up charging and maintenance solutions, each step plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth experience. These steps include familiarizing yourself with import rules, identifying your importer category, sourcing reliable suppliers, calculating total costs, preparing necessary documents, completing customs clearance, and organizing charging infrastructure.

By adhering to Uganda’s EV import regulations, you not only avoid potential penalties but also ensure your vehicle meets all quality, safety, and environmental standards. Compliance with these guidelines protects your investment and allows you to benefit from government incentives and tax exemptions, which can significantly reduce your overall costs.

Uganda’s National E-Mobility Strategy is accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles, both in public transport and private ownership. This shift is not only reducing emissions but also driving economic growth. Over time, EVs offer considerable savings compared to diesel-powered vehicles, making them a smart financial choice for the future.

As you complete the import process, maintain detailed records of all transactions, certifications, and service documents. These records are essential for warranty claims, resale purposes, and proving compliance with regulations. Careful preparation and attention to detail will ensure a hassle-free experience.

The move toward electric mobility in Uganda is picking up speed. By choosing to import an EV now, you’re not just acquiring a vehicle – you’re playing a part in advancing Uganda’s journey toward sustainable transportation.

FAQs

What are the requirements for companies to qualify for tax exemptions when importing electric vehicles to Uganda?

Companies involved in assembling electric two-wheelers in Uganda can benefit from several tax breaks. These include zero import duties and VAT on parts and components, along with a five-year income tax exemption. However, to take advantage of these incentives, certain conditions must be met:

At least 80% of the workforce must be Ugandan citizens.
80% of the raw materials used must be sourced locally.

For foreign investors, the minimum investment threshold is $10,000,000, while local investors need to invest at least $300,000. This requirement drops to $150,000 for local investors operating in rural areas. These measures are designed to boost local employment and drive growth in Uganda’s electric vehicle industry.

What steps should I take to ensure the electric car I’m importing meets Uganda’s environmental and safety standards?

To make sure your electric car aligns with Uganda’s safety and environmental regulations, it’s important to check off a few essential requirements:

Age Limit: The car must be no older than 15 years, as per Uganda’s import restrictions.
Emission Standards: It needs to comply with Euro 4 emission standards, which generally apply to cars produced from 2016 onward.
Roadworthiness Inspection: A JEVIC inspection is required to verify the car’s safety and compliance before it’s shipped.

Meeting these criteria will help you avoid unnecessary delays and ensure your vehicle is ready for import into Uganda in 2025.

What should I consider when choosing a supplier to import an electric car to Uganda?

When importing an electric vehicle to Uganda, a few key considerations can make the process much smoother. Start by ensuring the vehicle complies with Uganda’s import regulations. This includes confirming it’s less than 15 years old and adheres to emissions and safety standards. Don’t overlook the car’s condition – check the mileage and inspect essential components like brakes and tires to avoid surprises later.

Documentation is another critical factor. Make sure the supplier provides all necessary paperwork, including the original logbook and a detailed service history. A trustworthy supplier with a solid track record, positive customer reviews, and dependable shipping and clearing services can save you a lot of headaches. If possible, opt for suppliers with a physical presence in Uganda or nearby countries. This can simplify communication and provide better support throughout the process.