The Current Cost Of Clearing Cars In Nigeria Officially (Updated 2024)

Clearing cars in Nigeria is a significant financial endeavor influenced by various factors including import duties, taxes, and additional fees. As of 2024, the process and cost remain substantial, reflecting broader economic conditions and government policies.

Import Duties and Taxes

One of the primary costs in clearing cars in Nigeria is the import duty, which stands at a hefty 35% of the vehicle's value. This fee, imposed by the Nigerian government, is one of the highest globally. On top of this, car owners must also pay a 35% levy fee. Therefore, the total cost of clearing a car can amount to 70% of the vehicle's purchase price.

Additional Fees

Beyond import duties and levies, car owners must pay several other fees, including:

• Value Added Tax (VAT): Set at 7.5% of the vehicle's total cost.

• Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Tax: Calculated based on the car's value and year of manufacture.

• Clearing Agent Fees: For documentation, handling, and storage services provided by clearing agents.

• Shipping Company Fees and Terminal Fees: These cover the logistics of getting the vehicle to Nigeria and storing it upon arrival.

Currency Fluctuations

The fluctuating value of the Nigerian naira significantly impacts the overall cost of importing and clearing vehicles. For instance, a shift from ₦500 to ₦700 per dollar can dramatically alter clearing costs, making the process more expensive for car buyers.

Example Costs

To provide a clearer picture, here are some examples of clearing costs for popular car models:

• Toyota Corolla 2010: Purchase price of approximately ₦1,500,000, with a clearing cost of around ₦1,050,000.

• Lexus RX 350 2010: Purchase price of approximately ₦2,500,000, with a clearing cost of around ₦1,750,000 

Clearing Ports and Agencies

Cars imported into Nigeria are primarily cleared at major ports like Tin Can and Apapa in Lagos. Additionally, vehicles coming through land borders, such as those from Cotonou, are cleared at the Seme land border. The clearing process involves multiple government agencies, including customs and terminal operators, making it complex and often requiring the services of experienced clearing agents.

Conclusion

The high cost of clearing cars in Nigeria, driven by substantial import duties and various taxes, makes car ownership a considerable expense. The cumbersome process and the involvement of multiple agencies further complicate the task for individual car owners. To mitigate these challenges, many people hire professional clearing agents who navigate the bureaucratic procedures on their behalf.

While the high costs are intended to encourage the purchase of locally manufactured vehicles, the demand for imported cars remains high. The Nigerian government may need to reassess these policies to strike a balance between promoting local industries and making car ownership more accessible to its citizens.