Importing a used GWM from China involves more than the FOB price. Your landed cost is shaped by customs duty, value-added tax (VAT), excise, port charges, and clearance fees — all of which vary widely by destination. This listicle breaks down the key duty and tax considerations for importers in Russia/CIS, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. We reference real GWM models, actual FOB price ranges, and the documents you need to clear customs. GWM Export is an independent exporter, not affiliated with GWM. For a landed-cost breakdown specific to your market, contact us on WhatsApp.
1. Russia and CIS: Duty Based on Engine Size and Age
Best for: Importers targeting Russia, Kazakhstan, and nearby markets where left-hand-drive GWM models are already popular.
Why it stands out: Russia and CIS countries typically calculate duty on a combination of engine displacement and vehicle age. Older vehicles often face higher rates, while newer used cars can qualify for lower brackets. VAT is usually applied on top of the CIF value plus duty. You will need a customs declaration, invoice, bill of lading, and certificate of origin. Some markets also require an ERA-GLONASS emergency call system, which can be installed locally.
Real example: A used GWM Big Dog (2024, 1.5T Labrador Edition, 28,000 km, LHD) has a reference FOB price of $12,200. If you import to Kazakhstan, expect duty and VAT to add a significant percentage. We stock 81 Big Dog units with model years 2020–2026, FOB range $8,500–$20,600. All are sourced from the China domestic market with real mileage and registration date. For a landed-cost estimate, share your destination port and we will outline the duty structure. Our Tianjin and Guangzhou yards ship regularly to Kazakhstan.
2. Middle East: 5% Duty Common, But VAT Varies
Best for: Importers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and neighbouring GCC markets where used GWM SUVs and EVs are gaining traction.
Why it stands out: Many GCC countries apply a flat 5% customs duty on the CIF value for passenger vehicles, but VAT (or a similar consumption tax) can range from 5% to 15%. Saudi Arabia and the UAE both have VAT. Vehicles must meet local homologation and emission standards; used cars typically need a valid inspection certificate. The UAE often serves as a re-export hub, so if you plan to move units onward, check the rules for temporary admission.
Real example: A used GWM Good Cat (2021–2025, LHD) has a reference FOB price range of $5,200–$11,500. We hold 49 units in stock. For Saudi Arabia, you will also need a SASO certificate for conformity. Duty is 5%, but VAT is 15% in Saudi and 5% in the UAE. On a $8,000 FOB unit, that difference matters. We ship to UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other GCC destinations from Tianjin and Guangzhou. Ask us for a sample landed-cost calculation.
3. Africa: Varying Duty, Age Limits, and Excise
Best for: Importers in Nigeria, Kenya, and other African markets where used GWM pickups and SUVs are workhorses.
Why it stands out: African countries have some of the most varied import rules. Nigeria, for example, charges duty based on age and engine size, plus a levy and VAT. Kenya has an age limit (typically 8 years from first registration) and uses a depreciation schedule to determine customs value. Many African markets also require a pre-shipment inspection (PSI) and a certificate of roadworthiness. Left-hand drive is standard in most of West and Central Africa, but some East African countries are RHD — check before you buy.
Real example: The GWM Cannon pickup (2020, 75,000 km, LHD) is listed with a real reference price. We have multiple Cannon units in stock, including a 2022 model with 30,000 km. For Nigeria, duty on used pickups can differ from passenger cars — our blog article 'GWM Cannon pickup for Africa: an importer's guide' explains more. A 2021 Cannon with 102,000 km is also available. All listings show real mileage and photos. Confirm your country's age limit and duty rate before committing.
4. Latin America: High Duties and IVA
Best for: Importers in Mexico, Chile, and other Latin American markets where used car imports are tightly regulated.
Why it stands out: Many Latin American countries impose high customs duties (often 20–35%) plus a value-added tax (IVA) that can reach 19% in Chile or 16% in Mexico. Some countries restrict used car imports altogether or require a special permit. Mexico, for example, has specific rules for used vehicle imports based on NAFTA/USMCA and age. Chile allows used imports but applies a depreciation schedule for customs valuation. You will need a Spanish-language invoice, certificate of origin, and possibly a local customs broker.
Real example: A used GWM Haval H6 or Big Dog could be a fit for Chile or Mexico, but you must verify eligibility. We ship to Mexico and Chile from our Guangzhou yard. Our stock includes left-hand-drive GWM models with real mileage. For a 2023 Big Dog with 22,000 km (reference FOB available on request), expect duty and IVA to add 35–50% to the CIF value. We recommend using a local broker to handle the import declaration. Contact us on WhatsApp for a current list of units eligible for your market.
5. Documents You Need for Customs Clearance
Best for: All importers — this is the paperwork that determines whether your car clears smoothly.
Why it stands out: Every exported GWM ships with a commercial invoice, bill of lading (B/L), and certificate of origin (COO). Depending on destination, you may also need a pre-shipment inspection certificate, a conformity certificate (like SASO for Saudi Arabia), and a customs declaration. The invoice must show the FOB price, vehicle details (make, model, year, VIN, engine number), and mileage. The B/L is issued by the shipping line and must match the invoice. The COO proves the vehicle's Chinese origin, which can affect duty rates under trade agreements.
Real example: Our blog article 'GWM export documents explained: invoice, B/L, COO' covers each document in detail. For a used GWM Big Dog (2024, 28,000 km), we provide the invoice, B/L, and COO. If your destination requires a PSI, we can arrange it through a third-party agency. We also supply real photos and mileage verification. GWM Export is an independent exporter — we are not affiliated with GWM. Always confirm the exact document set with your customs broker before shipment.
6. Shipping Method Affects Your Landed Cost
Best for: Importers comparing roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) versus container shipping.
Why it stands out: RoRo is often cheaper for running vehicles, but it exposes the car to weather and handling. Container shipping costs more but offers better protection and allows you to fill the container with parts or additional vehicles. Your choice affects insurance, port charges, and sometimes duty valuation (CIF includes freight and insurance). For high-value GWM models like the Tank 300 or Big Dog, container shipping may be worth the extra cost. For a single used Good Cat, RoRo can be more economical.
Real example: We ship from Tianjin and Guangzhou. A RoRo shipment to Lagos or Mombasa typically takes 30–45 days; container to the same destination can take 35–50 days. Our blog article 'RoRo vs container: how to ship a car from China' compares costs and schedules. For a 2021 GWM Cannon with 35,000 km, RoRo might save you several hundred dollars, but check the port's handling fees. We can provide a quote for both methods. WhatsApp us with your destination port and vehicle preference.
7. VAT, Excise, and Other Local Taxes
Best for: Importers who need to understand the full tax picture beyond duty.
Why it stands out: Duty is only one layer. Many countries apply VAT on the duty-paid value. Some also charge excise based on engine size or CO2 emissions. In Russia, for example, excise is based on horsepower. In Nigeria, there is a levy on used cars. In the UAE, VAT is 5%. In Chile, IVA is 19%. These taxes are usually paid at the time of customs clearance. If you are re-exporting, you may be able to claim a refund or use a bonded warehouse. Always check the latest rates with the destination country customs authority.
Real example: For a used GWM Good Cat with a reference FOB price of $7,000, the landed cost in Chile could include 6% duty plus 19% IVA, while in Nigeria it might be 35% duty plus 7.5% VAT and a levy. That is a wide range. We provide reference FOB prices and can help you estimate these taxes. Our stock includes 49 Good Cat units, model years 2021–2025, FOB $5,200–$11,500. We also have 81 Big Dog units. For a personalised landed-cost breakdown, contact us on WhatsApp. We are an independent exporter, not affiliated with GWM.
Next Steps
Duty and tax rules change frequently. Always verify current rates with your local customs authority or a licensed broker. GWM Export provides real listings, real mileage, and real photos. We ship from Tianjin and Guangzhou to Russia, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Nigeria, Kenya, Mexico, and Chile. For a quote or to discuss your import, reach us on WhatsApp. Mention your destination port and preferred model — we will respond with available stock and a reference FOB price.