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Import Regulations

Regulations for Car Import from Japan to Bangladesh

Bangladesh is a rapidly growing and modernizing country. With this modernization, the need for transportation has also grown.

Cars are one of the most popular modes of transportation in Bangladesh, and as such, importing cars from other countries has become more common.

Japan is a popular source for imported cars due to the wide variety of models and the relatively low cost of cars in Japan compared to other countries. Japanese car’s reliable performance and longevity have also contributed to their popularity.

An importer should become familiar with the regulations of car import in Bangladesh from Japan. Keep reading to learn more about the regulations.

What Are the Most Popular Japanese Car Brands In Bangladesh?

Japan began building its first automobile in 1902, and the industry has continued to grow. Increasingly, Japanese car brands occupy the vehicle market.

With the introduction of high quality, fuel efficiency, reliable engine performance, attractive designs, and long longevity, Japanese cars became progressively more popular all over Japan.

Following the popularity of Japanese automobiles in their home country, these cars began attracting the attention of people across the globe. In the late 1950s, Japan began exporting its cars to other countries.  

Currently, many cars are imported from Japan into Bangladesh. Almost 80 percent of the cars on Bangladeshi streets are Japanese-made. Here is a list of the most popular brands imported by Japanese car importers in Bangladesh.

1. Toyota

2. Honda

3. Mazda

4. Subaru

5. Nissan

6. Mitsubishi

In this list, the Toyota brand is the most popular. There are many models of Toyota cars that are popular in Bangladesh, such as the Corolla Axio, Allion, Premio, Noah, Esquire, Hiace, C-HR, Prius, Harrier, Prado, Yaris, Camry,Crown etc.


Understanding the Regulations for Car Import in Bangladesh from Japan

Importing cars into any country can be a complex process, and it is important to know and understand the regulations in order to avoid any problems, delays, and penalty. Therefore, you will need the assistance of a reliable and professional car importer.

The regulations for importing cars into Bangladesh from Japan are in place to protect the interests of both the importer and the country.

Bangladesh government wants to ensure that only cars that meet certain standards are imported and that all taxes and duties are paid. Every Japanese car importer in Bangladesh should be familiar with the following regulations for car import:

Car Shipping Requirements

In order to import a car into Bangladesh from Japan, the car must be shipped through a port in Bangladesh. The port will inspect the car and verify that all taxes and duties have been paid.

Chittagong seaport and Mongla seaport are the two most important ports in Bangladesh used for car imports. In order to ship cars from Japan to Bangladesh, the Ro-Ro (roll-in/roll-out) method is primarily used.

Documents That Are Required for Car Import in Bangladesh from Japan:

In order to clear customs, the importer must present a number of documents.

The documents that are required for releasing the cars from sea port are given below:

1. Registration from The Country of Origin: This document must be provided to prove that the car has been registered in the country of origin and is not subject to any restrictions.

2. Export Certificate: For all cars imported into Bangladesh, the Japanese government issues an export certificate. This document must be presented to Bangladeshi customs officials upon arrival.

3. Original Invoice: The importer must present the original invoice from the Japanese dealership in order to clear customs.

4. Packing List: In a packing list, all items included with the vehicle are listed, such as spare parts and accessories. An importer should submit this document for clearance of the vehicle.

5. LC Application Form: The LC Application Form is used to apply for a Letter of Credit from a bank. This document is required in order to obtain financing for the purchase of the car.

6. JAAI Certificate: The JAAI (Japan Auto Appraisal Institute) certificate is a document that shows the condition of the car. This document is required for all used cars being imported into Bangladesh.

7. Bill of Lading: The bill of lading is a document issued by the shipping company that shows the details of the shipment, such as the car’s make, model, and VIN number.

8. Condition Report: A condition report must be prepared for all cars being imported into Bangladesh. This report must include a description of the car’s exterior and interior condition, as well as any mechanical problems.

9. Customs Duties and Taxes: The importer is responsible for paying all customs duties and taxes assessed on the car.

Tax Rate on Import Japanese Cars to Bangladesh

Import duties and taxes are an important source of revenue for the government. They are used to fund important programs and services.

Bangladesh government wants to ensure that all imported cars pay the correct amount of taxes and duties, so they have put in place a number of regulations that must be followed. Bangladesh Customs and National Board of Revenue (NBR) has fixed the taxes as per the Japanese Yellow Book Value.  


Year Restrictions on Car Imports

The government also places restrictions on the year of make that cars can be imported from Japan.

The restrictions are in place to ensure that only cars that are in good condition are imported and that the country’s infrastructure can handle the increase in traffic.

Only cars that are five years old can be imported from Japan. A car that is older than five years cannot be imported into Bangladesh.

Regulation for Steering Handle Driving Position

In order to prevent accidents, the Bangladesh government has put in place a regulation that requires all cars being imported into Bangladesh to have a steering handle driving position.

This means that the driver’s seat must be located on the car’s right-hand side. There are both right-hand drive and left-hand drive cars manufactured in Japan, so it is important to check the driving position of the vehicle before importing it. Importing left-hand drive vehicles is not permitted in Bangladesh.

Frequently Asked Questions:

There are a number of questions that are commonly asked by people who are looking to import a car from Japan to Bangladesh. The most common questions and their answers are listed below.

1. Who Can Import Duty-Free Cars to Bangladesh?

Duty-free is a term used to describe goods or products that are exempt from taxes and customs duties. Only privileged persons with diplomatic status can import cars without paying taxes. They can use their car for personal and family use.

2. Is There A Penalty for Falsely Importing Automobiles Into Bangladesh?

Yes, there is a penalty for falsely importing automobiles into Bangladesh. If you are caught trying to smuggle a car into the country, you will be highly fined and may face imprisonment.

3. Is It Possible to Import a Car to Bangladesh By Air?

Generally, it is not possible to import a car to Bangladesh by air. There can be a few exceptions, such as for cars that are being imported for diplomatic use.

4. What Will Happen If I Do Not Release the Car From Port Within 3 Days?

Wharf rent has to be paid on daily basis. This rate is around 500-1000 BDT per day. In case you fail to release the vehicle from the port in a timely manner, the vehicle will be placed on the auction list and sold by the customs authority.



The government heavily regulates automobile imports into Bangladesh. We hope that you can now better understand the process of car import in Bangladesh from Japan and what is required of you. In order to avoid fines and penalties, it is extremely important that you follow all rules and regulations.