Yes, you can import a used car from Japan to DR Congo if it is no more than 15 years old; Decree 26/01 of January 2026 lowered the limit from 20 years. Shipments also need pre-shipment verification under the OCC programme and, via western ports, a FERI cargo tracking note.
Autocom Japan has exported 900,000+ cars to 100+ countries. Our team in Japan helps you choose a car inside the limit, confirms its dates before you pay, and prepares the export and inspection documents.
Decree No. 26/01 of 24 January 2026 sets a maximum age of 15 years for imported used vehicles (down from 20), with a six-month transition from official publication. Sources differ on whether age runs from manufacture or first entry into service, so check with DGDA or your clearing agent.
Cars, light utility vehicles, trucks, ambulances and similar: 15 years. Agricultural and mining tractors: 20 years. Vehicles 30+ years old are treated as collector vehicles.
Will my car be allowed into DR Congo?
Pre-shipment verification runs under the OCC programme with Bureau Veritas (BIVAC), which issues an Attestation de Vérification. The 2026 decree also requires a technical inspection certificate from the country of origin.
We never quote government duty or tax — it depends on the car and changes often. Use the official pages below or ask a licensed clearing agent.
15 years, under Decree 26/01 of 24 January 2026. It was 20 years before.
Sources differ between the date of manufacture and first entry into service. Check with DGDA or your clearing agent before you pay.
An electronic cargo tracking note required for shipments through the western ports of Matadi and Boma.
Under the decree, non-compliant vehicles are re-exported or destroyed, so confirm the age first.
Rules change. We checked these rules on 1 October 2026. Always confirm with our office before you pay.
