Export new cars to Botswana from Dubai

Importing a brand-new vehicle into Botswana requires an import permit from the Department of International Trade in the Ministry of Trade and Entrepreneurship, which is non-transferable and typically granted upon request. Per Trade.gov, all imported goods are subject to Value Added Tax (VAT) of 14 percent. Beyond the VAT, you will face customs duties whose specific rates depend on engine displacement, fuel type, and your buyer category (individual, dealership, or fleet); these duties are not exempted for brand-new vehicles in Botswana's tariff schedule. The country is part of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), so vehicles coming from SACU member states follow intra-union rules, while those from outside SACU (including vehicles shipped from the UAE) are subject to the full external tariff regime. Botswana imposes no foreign exchange restrictions, so currency for duties and VAT is readily available. The SAD 500 form is the primary customs document required. One significant consideration is that transit delays across SADC borders, particularly with South Africa, have historically slowed shipping; plan your logistics accordingly. Verify with the destination's customs authority before shipping — duty rates vary by engine size, fuel type, and buyer category.