🇨🇫 How Much Does It Cost to Import a Car to Central African Rep.?
Combined import taxes in Central African Rep. run about 48%–78% of a vehicle's CIF value. On a $10,000 (CIF) car that is roughly $4,800–$7,800 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 Central African Rep.
- Combined import taxes (petrol/diesel): ~48%–78% of CIF
- Electric vehicles: ~48%–78% of CIF
- Maximum vehicle age: no hard limit, but escalating over-age penalties
- Used-car imports: allowed (within the age rule)
- Driving side: left-hand drive (LHD)
- Local currency: XAF
Ocean freight to Central African Rep.
| Destination port | RoRo (1 car ≈ 12.5 CBM) | 40HQ container (2–3 cars) | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangui (via Douala) | $1,563–$1,850 | $3,600–$4,100 | 42–52 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 Central African Rep.?
Combined import taxes (duty, excise and VAT) run about 48%–78% of the car's CIF value. On a $10,000 (CIF) car that is roughly $4,800–$7,800 in duties and taxes, before ocean freight and local port/clearance fees.
How long does it take to ship a car to Bangui (via Douala), Central African Rep.?
Ocean transit to Bangui (via Douala) is typically 42–52 days, depending on the origin port and sailing schedule. (Freight figures are estimates — confirm with your forwarder.)
Can I import a used car into Central African Rep.?
Yes. Used vehicles can be imported into Central African Rep. subject to the age rule and standard duties and taxes above.
Does Central African Rep. require left-hand or right-hand drive vehicles?
Central African Rep. drives on the right, so left-hand-drive (LHD) 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.