Import Japanese Cars to Hong Kong
Complete Import Regulations & Procedures Guide
Open RHD parallel-import market. Cost is FRT + examination, not an age ban....
Open import
Last verified: August 2026Quick Navigation
Year Restriction
No maximum age (First Registration Tax applies)
Shipping Time
3-6 weeks
Year Restrictions
No maximum age (First Registration Tax applies)
Hong Kong is RHD. Parallel import of used Japanese cars is allowed. There is no 8-year ban. Transport Department vehicle examination and First Registration Tax (FRT) are the gates. FRT is high and class-based (TD/C&ED). Emissions and safety must meet Hong Kong standards (including newer hybrid/EV rules as updated).
Destination Port & Shipping Information
Main Destination Port
Hong Kong
Alternative Ports:
- Hong Kong
Shipping Duration:
3-6 weeks
Vessel Schedule & Shipping Lines
Preferred Shipping Lines:
- NYK
- MOL
- K Line
Inspection Requirements
Inspection Type:
Transport Department vehicle examination
Last verified & official sources
Last verified: August 2026 — rules and rates change; confirm with the authority before you buy.
Official calculator / proceduresImport Duties & Taxes
Import Duty
No general Customs duty on private cars; First Registration Tax is the main levy
VAT
No GST/VAT; FRT instead
Other Taxes
First Registration Tax (progressive). Licence fees. Possible incentive schemes for EVs — confirm TD.
Required Documentation
Required Documents:
-
Export Certificate
-
Bill of Lading
-
Invoice
-
TD 22 / import documents
-
Identity / company papers
Important Notes
Official: Transport Department (td.gov.hk) vehicle first registration and C&ED. Calculate FRT before you buy.
Helpful Tips
Get an FRT estimate from a Hong Kong importer. Japan auction grade does not replace TD examination.
Import Regulations Overview
Open RHD parallel-import market. Cost is FRT + examination, not an age ban.
Step by step: (1) FRT estimate. (2) Buy. (3) Ship HK. (4) C&ED. (5) TD exam. (6) First registration.
