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How to import an electric car to Nigeria in 2026

Since 1 July 2026, pure electric cars can come into Nigeria without import duty or VAT. Here is what that means, what you still pay, and the steps from a Chinese listing to a car in Lagos.

Updated 01/10/2026

The 2026 exemption in brief

Nigeria Customs announced in July 2026 that pure electric vehicles, and extended-range electric vehicles that can drive at least 200 km on electricity alone, are exempt from import duty and VAT. Two conditions matter:

  • The car must be valued below $100,000. More expensive EVs pay the normal charges.
  • You need an Import Duty Exemption Certificate (IDEC) from the Federal Ministry of Finance before the car is cleared.

Hybrids, including plug-in hybrids, do not qualify. Sources: PRNigeria, 31 July 2026 and BusinessDay.

What you still pay

Even with the exemption, a few charges remain:

  • ECOWAS levy (ETLS): 0.5% of the CIF value.
  • CISS: 1% of the FOB value. Enforcement has been inconsistent, so budget for it.
  • Port and clearing: clearing agent and terminal charges, typically ₦150,000 to ₦400,000 for a car in Lagos.
  • Registration: plates and papers in your state.

Without the exemption, the standard charges apply: 20% import duty and a 5% levy on CIF, a 7% surcharge on the duty, then VAT of 7.5% on the total. On a typical small used EV that adds roughly ₦4 million to ₦6 million.

Getting the car here

  1. Choose the car and the seller. Export marketplaces list used Chinese EVs with prices in US dollars. Ask for a condition report, photographs and a battery health reading.
  2. Check the charging socket. Cars built for China use GB/T sockets. Most public chargers in Lagos use CCS2 or Type 2, so plan for a GB/T home charger or an adaptor.
  3. Apply for the IDEC with the Ministry of Finance before the car arrives, so it can be cleared under the exemption.
  4. Pay and ship. Expect export handling and dealer fees in China, then roll-on roll-off shipping to Lagos of about $2,200 to $2,700, taking 30 to 45 days.
  5. Clear the car. A licensed clearing agent handles Customs. Customs values the car with its own VIN system, which can differ from what you paid.
  6. Register and insure it in your state.

What it costs, all in

Our budget picks show complete landed costs for used EVs under ₦20 million, with and without the exemption. To cost a specific listing, use the import cost calculator.

These figures are estimates based on published rates. Confirm costs with your clearing agent before you pay for a car.