Southern Africa · Tier 3
Export new cars to Lesotho from Dubai
About the Lesotho market
Export New Cars For Sale in Dubai From Jebel Ali Free Zone to Lesotho
Explore a wide range of brand-new export cars for sale in Dubai. Buy and export new vehicles from Jebel Ali Free Zone quickly, securely, and at the best international prices.
Shipping to Lesotho
Primary port
via Durban
Transit time
~18–25 days + inland
Import regulations
Lesotho applies the SACU (Southern African Customs Union) common external tariff to imported vehicles. Per Trade.gov, tariff rates under SACU fall mostly within eight levels ranging from zero to 30 percent, though some categories are higher. As a brand-new motor vehicle (HS 8703 family), your car will be subject to the applicable SACU rate determined by engine size, fuel type, and other technical specifications. Beyond the base tariff, you should budget for clearing fees ranging from $119 to $180 per shipment, which are standard administrative charges applied to all imports.
Import Permit Requirements
Lesotho applies a permit system for imports from non-SACU members. This system is mandatory for all consignments imported by individual consumers and investors. If you are importing as a manufacturer or dealer with established operations in Lesotho, you may qualify for preferential treatment and blanket import rights lasting 12 months plus a three-month grace period, but individual and fleet buyers will need to secure the required import permit before your vehicle clears customs.
Documentation and Processing
All imports into Lesotho must comply with the Customs and Excise Act administered by the Lesotho Revenue Authority. Ensure your shipping documents are complete and accurate, as delays in clearance can incur additional storage costs. The country also offers preferential tariffs under the SADC regime and EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement for eligible goods, though these typically apply to specific product categories rather than automobiles.
Verify with the destination's customs authority before shipping — duty rates vary by engine size, fuel type, and buyer category.
Key points
- SACU common external tariff applies; rates typically range from zero to 30 percent depending on vehicle specifications
- Import permit required for all individual consumers, investors, and fleet buyers importing from outside SACU
- Clearing fees of $119 to $180 per shipment apply in addition to duty
- Manufacturers and dealers may qualify for blanket 12-month import rights with three-month grace period
- Lesotho Revenue Authority administers all customs clearance under the Customs and Excise Act
Documents you'll need
- Bill of Lading — Original
- Commercial Invoice — Original plus 2 copies
- Packing List — Original
- Certificate of Origin — Original
- Chassis and VIN Certificate — Original
- Import Permit — Issued by Lesotho customs authority; required for non-SACU imports
- Customs Declaration Form — As per Lesotho Revenue Authority requirements
- Proof of Payment of Clearing Fees — Receipt for $119–$180 fee
- Vehicle Registration Documents — Proof of manufacturer or authorized dealer status
- Technical Specifications Sheet — Engine size, fuel type, emissions data for tariff classification
Sources (1)
- Trade.gov · Lesotho Country Commercial Guide · June 30, 2026