🇧🇼 How Much Does It Cost to Import a Car to Botswana?
Combined import taxes in Botswana run about 40%–55% of a vehicle's CIF value. On a $10,000 (CIF) car that is roughly $4,000–$5,500 in duties and taxes — before ocean freight and local clearance. Below is the full 2026 breakdown, then a free calculator for your exact car.
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Key import facts for Botswana
- Combined import taxes (petrol/diesel): ~40%–55% of CIF
- Electric vehicles: ~40%–55% of CIF
- Maximum vehicle age: no hard limit, but escalating over-age penalties
- Used-car imports: allowed (within the age rule)
- Driving side: right-hand drive (RHD)
- Local currency: BWP
Ocean freight to Botswana
| Destination port | RoRo (1 car ≈ 12.5 CBM) | 40HQ container (2–3 cars) | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaborone (via Durban) | $1,125–$1,350 | $3,100–$3,500 | 28–36 days * |
RoRo cost shown for a midsize car (~12.5 CBM). A 40-foot high-cube container is shared across multiple cars. Figures marked * are estimates — confirm live rates with your forwarder.
Frequently asked questions
How much are import duties and taxes on a car in Botswana?
Combined import taxes (duty, excise and VAT) run about 40%–55% of the car's CIF value. On a $10,000 (CIF) car that is roughly $4,000–$5,500 in duties and taxes, before ocean freight and local port/clearance fees.
How long does it take to ship a car to Gaborone (via Durban), Botswana?
Ocean transit to Gaborone (via Durban) is typically 28–36 days, depending on the origin port and sailing schedule. (Freight figures are estimates — confirm with your forwarder.)
Can I import a used car into Botswana?
Yes. Used vehicles can be imported into Botswana subject to the age rule and standard duties and taxes above.
Does Botswana require left-hand or right-hand drive vehicles?
Botswana drives on the left, so right-hand-drive (RHD) vehicles are the standard.
Estimate your exact cost
Tax rates, car age and engine size all change the final number. Use the free AxisLink calculator to get a line-by-line landed cost for your specific vehicle and destination port.