Sri Lanka is a right-hand-drive (RHD) market that drives on the left, which makes Japanese used vehicles a natural fit when imports are permitted. Used passenger cars are typically restricted to roughly three years of age, and popular hybrids and compacts such as the Toyota Aqua, Suzuki Wagon R and Honda Vezel move quickly when the market is open.
Be aware that Sri Lanka has, at various times, suspended or heavily restricted used-vehicle imports for balance-of-payments reasons, and applies very high combined taxes. Both the availability of imports and the tax burden can change sharply and at short notice. Always confirm the current status before committing to a purchase or shipment.
Overview
- Age limit
- 3 years
- Main ports
- Colombo
- Drive side
- RHD
- Currency
- LKR
- Inspection
- —
Indicative duties & taxes
How import taxes stack up on the CIF value.
| FOB | $10,000 |
| Ocean freight | $0 |
| Marine insurance | $150 |
| CIF value | $10,150 |
| Import Duty | $3,045 |
| Excise Duty | $6,090 |
| VAT | $3,471 |
| Estimated taxes | $12,606 |
| Estimated landed cost | $22,756 |
Estimates only, based on indicative rates. Request a formal quote from ASTONISHING CARS for exact figures.
Required documents
- •Original Bill of Lading
- •Commercial invoice
- •Japanese export certificate (de-registration) with English translation
- •Import licence / permit (when imports are open)
- •Insurance certificate
- •Importer's identification and tax documents
Popular models
Import process
- 1Confirm that used-vehicle imports are currently permitted and check the prevailing age limit and tax rates with Sri Lanka Customs.
- 2Select a compliant vehicle (typically under ~3 years) and agree on the CIF price to Colombo.
- 3Arrange shipping and obtain the Bill of Lading and export documentation from Japan.
- 4Clear the vehicle at Colombo, paying import duty, excise duty and VAT as assessed.
- 5Complete local registration and roadworthiness formalities before taking delivery.
Cars in stock for Sri Lanka
Right-hand-drive Japanese stock our buyers regularly ship to Sri Lanka.
Buying & import guides for Sri Lanka
Model picks and import know-how for the Sri Lanka market.
Best Japanese Cars for the Sri Lanka Market
Sri Lanka drives on the left and uses right-hand-drive cars. Efficient hybrids and compact Japanese models are long-standing favourites.
Read moreBuying guidesToyota Aqua export buyer's guide
One of Japan's most fuel-efficient hybrids: who the Toyota Aqua suits and what to check before importing.
Read moreBuying guidesSuzuki Wagon R Export Guide: The Tall Kei Wagon That Goes Far on Little Fuel
An export guide to the Suzuki Wagon R kei tall-wagon, prized for ultra-low running costs, tall packaging and cheap parts.
Read moreBuying guidesHonda Vezel (HR-V) export buyer's guide
A stylish, efficient compact SUV with a hybrid option: what to know before importing the Honda Vezel.
Read moreBuying guidesToyota Allion & Premio export buyer's guide
Comfortable, reliable mid-size sedans that are cheap to run: what to know about the Allion and Premio.
Read moreShipping & logisticsImport duty and taxes on used cars, explained
How duty, VAT, excise and clearing fees stack on top of CIF, and why the same car costs different amounts in different countries.
Read moreFrequently asked questions
Can I import a used car into Sri Lanka right now?+
It depends on current policy. Sri Lanka has suspended or restricted used-vehicle imports at various times. Confirm the present status with Sri Lanka Customs before proceeding.
What age of car is allowed?+
Used passenger cars are typically limited to around three years, but this is indicative. Always verify the current age limit with the national customs authority.
Are the duty figures shown here exact?+
No. They are indicative for estimation only and Sri Lankan taxes can be very high and change sharply. Confirm current rates and age limits with Sri Lanka Customs before you commit.
Figures are indicative and change frequently. Always confirm current rules and rates with the official customs authority before importing.
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