Import Japanese Cars to Botswana
Complete Import Regulations & Procedures Guide
RHD, no hard age cap, Durban corridor, BURS + DRTS....
Open import
Last verified: August 2026Quick Navigation
Year Restriction
No general age ban (BURS duty on value/engine)
Shipping Time
9-13 weeks
Year Restrictions
No general age ban (BURS duty on value/engine)
Botswana is RHD. There is no Kenya-style 8-year import ban. BURS assesses used vehicles on customs value plus duty/VAT/excise schedules. Roadworthiness and registration follow after BURS release. Confirm current BURS tariff.
Destination Port & Shipping Information
Main Destination Port
Durban (then Pioneer Gate / Tlokweng)
Alternative Ports:
- Durban
- Walvis Bay
Shipping Duration:
9-13 weeks
Vessel Schedule & Shipping Lines
Preferred Shipping Lines:
- NYK
- MOL
- Hoegh Autoliners
Inspection Requirements
Inspection Type:
Roadworthiness after arrival (DRTS); Japan inspection recommended
Inspection Details:
BURS clearance first, then DRTS roadworthy and registration. A Japan inspection report still helps identity and condition disputes.
Last verified & official sources
Last verified: August 2026 — rules and rates change; confirm with the authority before you buy.
Import Duties & Taxes
Import Duty
BURS customs duty on customs value (confirm current schedule)
VAT
VAT on importation (Botswana standard VAT — confirm BURS)
Other Taxes
Fuel levy / motor vehicle taxes may apply at registration. SACU rules can affect goods coming via South Africa.
Required Documentation
Required Documents:
-
Export Certificate
-
Bill of Lading
-
Commercial Invoice
-
BURS importer registration
-
Transit SAD from SA if applicable
Important Notes
Official: Botswana Unified Revenue Service (burs.org.bw). Confirm duty/VAT and any SACU implications when transiting South Africa with a used car.
Helpful Tips
1) RHD only. 2) Budget SA transit and border time. 3) Register promptly after BURS release.
Import Regulations Overview
RHD, no hard age cap, Durban corridor, BURS + DRTS.
Step by step: (1) Buy RHD unit. (2) RoRo to Durban. (3) Transit to Botswana. (4) BURS. (5) DRTS roadworthy and plates.
