The 2025 Practical Guide to Import Electric Cars from China to Ghana

Importing electric vehicles (EVs) from China to Ghana in 2025 is now easier and cheaper, thanks to Ghana’s duty-free incentives for EV imports through 2032. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from regulations to costs and suppliers.

Key Points:

Why China? Chinese brands like BYD, Geely, and Leapmotor offer affordable, high-tech EVs perfect for Ghana’s market.
Benefits of EVs: Lower running costs, fewer emissions, and government-backed incentives make EVs an attractive option.
Regulations: Ghana waives import duties on EVs for public transport and local assembly. However, private imports may still incur VAT and other fees.
Costs: Expect additional charges like VAT (12.5%), handling fees, and insurance. A typical EV could cost $26,200–$27,000 after import.
Steps to Import: Prepare key documents, use Ghana’s customs system (ICUMS), and register your EV with the DVLA.

Platforms like EV24.africa simplify the process by connecting you with trusted Chinese manufacturers, handling shipping, and ensuring compliance with Ghana’s import rules.

Quick Tip:

Avoid common mistakes like incomplete paperwork, unverified suppliers, or skipping pre-shipment inspections. These can lead to delays or extra costs. With the right planning, you can save thousands and ensure a smooth import process.

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Ghana’s 2025 EV Import Regulations

Getting familiar with Ghana’s electric vehicle (EV) import incentives and compliance rules is crucial for anyone looking to navigate this evolving market.

Ghana’s EV Import Policies

The Ministry of Transport introduced Ghana’s National Electric Vehicle Policy to encourage EV adoption nationwide. This policy focuses on supporting public transportation and local assembly efforts by offering significant financial incentives to eligible importers.

One of the standout benefits is the eight-year import duty exemption for electric vehicles used in public transportation, which has been in effect since 2024. This applies to electric buses, taxis, and fleet vehicles used for commercial passenger services. Importers planning to cater to ride-hailing, taxi services, or bus fleets must demonstrate their vehicles’ intended use for public transport to qualify for this exemption.

For businesses exploring local assembly, Ghana extends the eight-year import duty exemption to Semi-Knocked Down (SKD) and Completely Knocked Down (CKD) EV imports for registered assembly companies. Companies like Solar Taxi have already taken advantage of government-backed initiatives, including financing, tax breaks, and regulatory support. Locally assembled EVs also benefit from zero-rated VAT, which lowers production costs and makes these vehicles more competitive against fully imported models. However, if you’re importing a fully built EV for private use, expect to pay standard VAT rates, along with other fees like import service charges, port handling fees, and vehicle inspection fees.

Ghana aligns itself with other African countries that have reduced or eliminated import duties on EVs to encourage cleaner transportation options. That said, the eligibility rules for privately imported fully built EVs and hybrid vehicles remain unclear. To avoid unexpected costs during customs clearance, importers should consult the Ghana Revenue Authority or the Ministry of Transport for precise guidance.

Understanding these policies is just the first step. Next, it’s vital to review the compliance requirements to ensure a smooth import process.

Restrictions and Compliance Requirements

While Ghana offers attractive incentives for EV imports, navigating the regulations can be tricky. The criteria for privately importing fully built EVs and hybrid vehicles are still somewhat unclear. To steer clear of unexpected fees or compliance issues, it’s a good idea to seek detailed advice from the Ghana Revenue Authority or the Ministry of Transport.

How to Import EVs from China to Ghana

Once you understand Ghana’s EV policies, the next steps involve preparing shipping and customs documents, clearing customs, and registering your EV.

Required Documentation

Having the right documents in place is crucial to avoid delays during shipping and customs clearance.

Before shipping your EV from China, ensure you have:

A Commercial Invoice that includes details like currency, unit value, quantity, and HTS code.
A Packing List outlining the shipment’s contents.
A VGM form (Verified Gross Mass) for Full Container Load (FCL) bookings.
A Shipper’s Letter of Instruction or export declaration, required if the vehicle’s value exceeds $2,500.
A Certificate of Conformity (COC) to confirm the EV meets safety and quality standards.
The Vehicle Title.
The original waybill or Bill of Lading.

For customs clearance in Ghana, prepare:

A Registration Certificate from the Registrar General’s Department.
An Import Declaration Form (IDF) issued by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI).
A Tax Clearance Certificate from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
Your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or GhanaCard PIN.
Any required permits from regulatory agencies, such as the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA).
An electronic submission of the Customs Declaration and Bill of Entry through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), along with all supporting documents.
The shipping company’s manifest provided to GRA Customs.
A vehicle toll pass and waybill from the Ghana Ports and Harbors Authority (GPHA), which allows the vehicle to be removed from the port.

Keep both original documents and copies on hand to make the process smoother. Once you’ve gathered these documents, you can move on to Ghana’s customs clearance procedures.

Ghana’s Customs Clearance Process

Ghana’s customs clearance is managed through the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS). Before your vehicle arrives, register with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) using your TIN or GhanaCard PIN to gain access to ICUMS. When your shipment is on its way, submit an electronic Bill of Entry application, along with all required supporting documents.

The shipping company will also submit a manifest to GRA Customs. After customs reviews the documents and you pay the necessary duties and fees, they will release your vehicle. At this stage, you’ll receive a vehicle toll pass and a waybill from GPHA, which authorizes you to remove the vehicle from the port. Once the customs process is complete, you can proceed with registering your EV.

Vehicle Registration and Licensing

After clearing customs, the next step is registering your EV with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA). You’ll need to provide your Vehicle Title and customs clearance documents, including the Registration Certificate, Import Declaration Form, and Tax Clearance Certificate. The DVLA will review your documents and officially register your EV, allowing it to be legally driven on Ghana’s roads.

Import Costs and Fees

When importing a vehicle, costs go beyond the purchase price. Taxes, duties, and various fees add up, so understanding these charges helps you plan better and avoid surprises at customs. Here’s a closer look at the key components.

Import Duties and Exemptions

Ghana provides an eight-year import duty exemption for electric vehicles (EVs) used in public transport, as well as for semi-knocked down (SKD) and completely knocked down (CKD) imports by registered EV assembly companies. However, for fully built EVs imported for private use, whether they qualify for a duty waiver remains uncertain.

For conventional motor vehicles, import duties typically range as follows:

5% for smaller engines (up to 1,500cc)
10% for mid-size engines (1,500cc–2,500cc)
20% for larger engines (over 2,500cc)

EVs are often assessed based on their motor power equivalents. In addition to duties, mandatory levies calculated as a percentage of the vehicle’s value include:

National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL): 2.50%
GETFUND Levy: 2.50%
Special Import Levy: 2%

Smaller charges include:

African Union Levy: 0.20%
ECOWAS Levy: 0.50%
EXIM Levy: 0.75%

Ghana also restricts the import of vehicles older than 10 years. For eligible vehicles, customs may apply an overage penalty based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value, factoring in depreciation (ranging from 0–50% depending on the vehicle’s age). Special-purpose vehicles, such as agricultural tractors, ambulances, and hearses, are exempt from these penalties.

Environmental and Processing Fees

Even if your EV qualifies for a duty exemption, you’ll still face other charges. These include a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 12.50%, which is calculated on the duty-inclusive value (CIF plus duty, NHIL, and GETFUND charges), and an Examination Fee of 1% of the CIF value to cover the port’s physical inspection.

A Processing Fee is also applied, though its rate varies. Additional third-party charges may include:

Local shipping line fees
Terminal handling fees
Storage rent while completing paperwork
Extra handling fees at safe bond terminals

You’ll also need a trade number plate costing GH₵154 (about $10), and many importers hire clearing agents whose fees depend on the service level provided.

Cost Calculation Example

Here’s an example to illustrate how these costs add up:

Scenario: Importing a new BYD Dolphin from China

FOB (Free On Board) price: $18,000
Shipping costs: $1,500
Insurance: $300
CIF value: $19,800

If the EV does not qualify for the public transport exemption:

Import duty (5%): $990
NHIL (2.5%): $495
GETFUND Levy (2.5%): $495

The duty-inclusive value is calculated as:
CIF + Duty + NHIL + GETFUND = $19,800 + $990 + $495 + $495 = $21,780

From this, the VAT (12.50%) is $2,722.50.

Additional levies (based on CIF):

Special Import Levy (2%): $396
African Union Levy (0.20%): $39.60
ECOWAS Levy (0.50%): $99
EXIM Levy (0.75%): $148.50

These add up to $683.10. Combined taxes and fees total $5,386. Adding this to the CIF value gives a subtotal of $25,186. With estimated third-party charges ranging from $800 to $1,200, the total landed cost for the vehicle falls between $26,200 and $27,000, starting with an FOB price of $18,000.

Note: Qualifying for the public transport exemption removes the import duty and reduces the VAT base, significantly lowering the overall cost.

Shipping and Chinese EV Suppliers

Bringing an electric vehicle (EV) from China to Ghana involves making key decisions about shipping methods and choosing reliable suppliers. These choices directly influence your costs, delivery timeline, and overall experience with the import process.

Shipping Methods

For most importers, sea freight is the most cost-effective way to transport vehicles. Ships typically depart from major Chinese ports and arrive at Ghana’s Tema Port. Transit times can vary depending on the shipping route and whether there are any intermediate stops along the way.

When it comes to container shipping, you have two main options: Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) and dedicated container shipping. RoRo shipping allows vehicles to be driven directly onto the ship, while container shipping secures your EV in a private container, offering added protection.

If speed is a priority, air freight is available, but it comes with a much higher price tag. This option is typically reserved for high-value shipments or situations where time is critical.

The shipping method you select will also impact your insurance costs, as freight charges are part of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value used to calculate customs duties. Once you’ve chosen the right shipping method and secured insurance, the next step is to focus on selecting the best Chinese EV manufacturer for your needs.

Chinese EV Manufacturers

After finalizing shipping arrangements, finding a trustworthy EV manufacturer is essential. China is a global leader in electric vehicle production, with several companies offering models tailored to Ghanaian market demands.

BYD is the largest EV manufacturer in the world, known for affordable models, dependable battery technology, and expanding after-sales support across Africa.
Geely, which produces EVs under multiple brands like the Geometry series, is recognized for its emphasis on safety and build quality.
Leapmotor specializes in compact, tech-forward EVs, perfect for urban driving in cities like Accra.
Dongfeng manufactures both passenger and commercial EVs, catering to a broader range of needs.
ROX focuses on rugged electric SUVs and pickups designed for tougher terrain and challenging conditions.

When evaluating manufacturers, ensure they have proper export credentials and that their vehicles meet international safety standards. Pay close attention to specifications such as battery capacity, driving range, charging time, and warranty coverage. Reputable manufacturers often provide English-language manuals and can connect you with authorized service centers for maintenance.

Additionally, confirm that the manufacturer offers right-hand drive models, as Ghana follows right-side driving rules. Platforms like EV24.africa can help you compare various Chinese EV brands and their detailed specifications. Before making a final decision, ask for references from other African importers and be cautious of unusually low prices, which may signal quality or compliance issues.

Shipping Insurance and Tracking

Shipping insurance is a must to safeguard your investment during transit. Marine cargo insurance typically costs between 1.5% and 2% of the vehicle’s value and covers risks like accidents, damage from rough seas, theft, and port handling incidents. Since customs duties are calculated based on the CIF value – which includes the insurance premium – proof of insurance is required as part of your shipping documentation.

Standard marine insurance policies cover total loss or significant damage but may exclude minor cosmetic issues. Carefully review the terms to understand what’s included and whether the coverage extends beyond port-to-port transit.

To keep tabs on your shipment, modern shipping lines provide online tracking systems that use the bill of lading number. Your freight forwarder should also provide regular updates on your vehicle’s progress and notify you of any delays or route changes.

Working with experienced freight forwarders can make a big difference. They handle essential tasks like documentation, customs pre-clearance, and end-to-end tracking, helping to avoid costly errors and delays. While their fees add to your overall expenses, they often save you money by preventing storage fees or documentation mistakes. Stay in regular contact with your logistics partner and request updates – such as photos before loading and progress at key milestones – to ensure your EV arrives in good condition and ready for registration.

Tips and Resources for Importing EVs

Once you’ve locked in your shipping and supplier decisions, it’s time to refine your import strategy. Importing electric vehicles (EVs) from China to Ghana requires careful planning and a solid understanding of available resources.

Government Incentives

Ghana’s National Electric Vehicle Policy offers substantial financial benefits to make EV imports more affordable. The standout incentive? A complete waiver of import duties on fully electric vehicles, effective from 2024 through 2032. This eight-year window provides a significant opportunity to cut costs.

This waiver can lower your final vehicle cost by 20% to 40% compared to traditional gas-powered cars. For individuals and fleet operators alike, this makes Chinese EVs an attractive option.

For those considering larger-scale operations, Ghana also grants import duty exemptions for semi-knocked down (SKD) and completely knocked down (CKD) EVs. These exemptions apply to registered EV assembly companies during the same eight-year period. Additionally, businesses setting up local assembly operations qualify for a three-year corporate income tax exemption.

Looking further ahead, Ghana aims to ban new petrol and diesel vehicle imports and sales after 2045. This long-term commitment to electric mobility underscores the importance of taking advantage of the duty-free period before 2032 to position yourself ahead of this market shift.

Using EV24.africa

EV24.africa

Navigating the complexities of international EV imports can feel daunting, but EV24.africa simplifies the process for African buyers. This platform specializes in sourcing and delivering EVs across all 54 African countries, offering transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Through EV24.africa, you can access a wide range of Chinese EV manufacturers, including BYD, Dongfeng, Leapmotor, and Geely. Each model comes with detailed specifications and clear pricing. For example, the BYD Dolphin Active starts at $11,800, while the Geely Panda Mini Base is available for $5,880.

The platform ensures compliance with Ghana’s G-CAP standards before shipment. This step minimizes the risk of purchasing non-compliant vehicles that could face rejection at customs. EV24.africa also handles shipping logistics, providing options like RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) and container shipping, with port-to-port or door-to-door delivery services.

"We’re here to make it easy. At EV24.africa, we simplify the process of importing and buying electric vehicles in Africa. Our expertise ensures a seamless, transparent, and stress-free experience, so you can focus on driving the future of mobility." – EV24.africa

Beyond sourcing vehicles, the platform offers educational resources on importing EVs to Ghana, covering regulations, costs, and practical tips. They also assist with customs clearance and local registration, managing documentation and compliance to save you time and reduce stress. By partnering with EV24.africa, you gain access to vetted suppliers with proven track records, eliminating much of the uncertainty and risk tied to direct supplier negotiations.

With reliable suppliers and a clear roadmap, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth import process.

Common Import Mistakes to Avoid

Several mistakes can derail your import experience, but with proper planning, they’re easy to sidestep:

Incomplete documentation: This is a leading cause of customs delays and rejections. Missing documents like the G-CAP pre-shipment inspection certificate or proof of insurance can lead to costly storage fees. Double-check all paperwork before shipment.
Unverified suppliers: Working with suppliers unfamiliar with G-CAP standards often results in non-compliant vehicles that customs won’t clear. Always confirm your supplier’s experience with Ghana’s requirements and ask for references.
Skipping pre-shipment inspections: Vehicles that fail G-CAP inspections by approved agencies like Bureau Veritas or SGS can be rejected at Ghana’s ports. Rejected vehicles must be re-exported or abandoned, leading to financial loss.
Underestimating costs: Beyond the vehicle price, factor in shipping insurance (1.5%–2% of the vehicle’s value), port handling fees, clearing agent charges, environmental levies, and registration costs. Budget conservatively to avoid surprises.
Importing vehicles older than 10 years: Ghana prohibits vehicles over a decade old, and customs will reject them outright. Verify the manufacturing date and ensure compliance with Ghana’s Euro II emission standards.
Not hiring a reputable clearing agent: An experienced agent familiar with EV imports can prevent overcharges and delays. They’ll handle specific requirements like battery certifications and electrical safety checks, ensuring smooth customs clearance.

Stay updated on regulations through official Ghana Revenue Authority channels and maintain regular communication with your clearing agent and freight forwarder. Being proactive helps you avoid unexpected delays or costs.

Conclusion

Importing electric vehicles (EVs) from China to Ghana in 2025 presents a compelling financial opportunity, thanks to an eight-year import duty waiver that can reduce final vehicle costs by 20%–40%. However, making the most of this benefit requires careful planning, strict adherence to regulations, and precise cost management.

To avoid setbacks like customs rejection or additional fees, ensure the vehicles are less than 10 years old and meet Euro II emissions standards. Once regulatory requirements are satisfied, focus on detailed cost planning. This means accounting for all relevant expenses, including shipping insurance, port handling fees, clearing agent charges, environmental levies, and registration costs. These should all be factored into your CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)-based calculations.

Choosing the right supplier is equally critical. Trusted manufacturers such as BYD, Dongfeng, Leapmotor, and Geely provide competitively priced models tailored for Ghana’s market. Working with manufacturers familiar with local compliance regulations minimizes risks and streamlines the import process. Incorporate these considerations into your overall strategy to ensure a smooth transition to electric mobility.

Platforms like EV24.africa simplify this entire process. They connect you with dependable Chinese EV manufacturers, manage shipping logistics, and offer transparent pricing with no hidden costs. With expertise across all 54 African markets, EV24.africa is well-versed in Ghana’s regulatory requirements, guiding you through customs clearance and local registration.

"We’re here to make it easy. At EV24.africa, we simplify the process of importing and buying electric vehicles in Africa. Our expertise ensures a seamless, transparent, and stress-free experience, so you can focus on driving the future of mobility." – EV24.africa

Ghana’s plan to ban new petrol and diesel vehicle imports after 2045 underscores the country’s commitment to electric mobility. The duty-free window through 2032 offers a unique chance to benefit from government incentives. Whether you’re importing a single EV or an entire fleet, now is the time to take advantage of this opportunity as Ghana moves steadily toward an electric future.

FAQs

What steps are involved in clearing electric vehicles through customs when importing from China to Ghana?

The process of clearing electric vehicles through customs in Ghana involves a few essential steps. To start, all cargo details must be submitted via the UNIPASS-Ghana System, the designated platform for handling customs documentation. After submission, customs officials will review your documents to confirm they meet the necessary import requirements. Once this is done, the vehicle will go through a physical inspection before it’s officially approved for entry into Ghana.

To avoid unnecessary delays, make sure your paperwork – such as invoices, shipping documents, and permits – is accurate and complete. Additionally, staying up-to-date on the latest customs duties and regulations can make the entire process smoother.

What steps should I take to ensure the electric car I import to Ghana complies with local regulations and clears customs smoothly?

To make sure your imported electric vehicle aligns with Ghana’s regulations and avoids any customs complications, here’s what you need to do:

Prepare all required documents: This includes the Title, Bill of Lading, and Customs Declaration forms.
Verify the vehicle meets Ghana’s import standards: The car must be left-hand drive and no more than 10 years old (for example, only vehicles from model year 2015 or newer can be imported in 2025).
Conduct a G-CAP pre-shipment inspection: This step ensures the vehicle complies with Ghanaian regulations before shipping.
Register the vehicle with the DVLA: Once customs clearance is complete, head to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority to officially register the car.

By following these steps, you’ll simplify the import process and steer clear of any unexpected delays or fines.

What should I consider when selecting a reliable Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer for importing to Ghana?

When deciding on a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, start by considering their history of reliability and standing in the market. Well-known names like BYD and Chery have earned recognition for their early involvement in the EV industry and consistent performance over time.

It’s also crucial to check whether the manufacturer offers spare parts and repair services locally in Ghana. This ensures smoother maintenance and minimizes unexpected delays. Opt for brands that are known for supporting their vehicles internationally and providing warranties or after-sales services specifically suited to your region.