Import duty on a car in Zambia depends on the vehicle's age and engine size. Newer vehicles (roughly under two years old, and hybrids or electric vehicles) are charged on the Value for Duty Purposes (VDP), the Kwacha equivalent of the CIF value (Cost, Insurance and Freight), at a combined rate of 25% customs duty plus 30% excise plus 16% VAT. Older vehicles are charged a fixed specific duty in Kwacha per body type and engine size, which bundles customs, excise, VAT and fees together. All vehicles are also subject to a one-off carbon emission surtax based on engine size [Customs and Excise Act, Cap. 322].
Because the exact amount varies by vehicle, do not rely on a general figure. Instead, use the ZRA's official Motor Vehicle Tax Calculator on the ZRA portal (zra.org.zm) to calculate your duty. You will need your vehicle's CIF value, engine size, body type and year of manufacture.
To import, if the CIF value exceeds US$2,000 you must declare on ASYCUDAWorld and use a licensed clearing agent. Bring your commercial invoice, bill of lading or airway bill, packing list and Tax Identification Number (TPIN). Full duty is paid before the vehicle is released. The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) is the responsible authority. Note: there is no import declaration fee in Zambia.