Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

To import a car into Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the vehicle must comply with local import regulations. The country imposes import duties, VAT, and other fees based on the vehicle's CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value, engine size, and age. Typically, vehicles over five years old are not allowed unless they meet certain exceptions.

An Import Licence from the Ministry of Trade is required for all vehicles, and it must be obtained before shipping the vehicle to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Import duties, VAT, and customs fees vary depending on the vehicle's specifications. The total duty can range from 45% to 100% of the vehicle's CIF value, depending on factors such as engine size, type of vehicle, and year of manufacture.

The documents required for importing a vehicle include the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Certificate of Title, Import Licence, and proof of insurance. The importer must present a government-issued ID or passport. Vehicles must pass an inspection upon arrival to ensure roadworthiness and compliance with safety standards.

Importers are advised to use a licensed customs broker to handle the clearance process. The broker will assist with paying taxes, completing paperwork, and ensuring the vehicle meets all regulatory requirements for importation.

The car market in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines mainly consists of imported used vehicles, with Japanese brands like Toyota, Nissan, and Suzuki being particularly popular due to their durability and availability of spare parts. Compact cars and SUVs are preferred given the island's road conditions and the high cost of fuel.

There is a growing interest in fuel-efficient and hybrid vehicles as fuel prices rise. However, traditional gasoline-powered vehicles remain dominant due to their affordability and accessibility in the local market.

Several clearing agencies in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines assist with the importation process, including handling paperwork, customs clearance, and vehicle delivery.

Kingstown, Saint Vincent. Tel: +1 784-456-2345. E-mail: swiftshipping@svg.com

Port Kingstown, Saint Vincent. Tel: +1 784-457-8900. E-mail: caribbrokers@svg.com

The primary port for vehicle imports in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the Port of Kingstown. This port handles the majority of cargo, including vehicle imports. Customs clearance and inspection are conducted here to ensure compliance with import regulations.

Importers are encouraged to arrange a customs broker to assist with the importation process, ensuring a smooth clearance and compliance with all necessary regulations.