Cost to import a car from Japan to Samoa

Rates & rules last reviewed

Samoa drives on the left, which makes right-hand-drive Japanese cars the natural and legal choice for the islands. The country switched to left-hand traffic in 2009, and since then Japanese used-car imports have become the dominant source for both passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. The packet data shows an approximate maximum age of 8 years for imported used vehicles — meaning for 2026 buyers should target 2018 model year or newer — though our team verifies the current customs notice before sourcing begins. Customs duty, excise and VAGST (Value Added Goods and Services Tax) all apply on top of the vehicle's landed cost, and a roadworthiness check is required before the car goes on Samoan roads. Our licensed team sources the right age-compliant car at Japanese auction and manages the full process through to delivery.

Main ports
  • Port of Apia
Import age rule
Used passenger cars generally ≤8 years from year of manufacture (confirm the current customs notice). Samoa switched to left-side driving in 2009 specifically to use Japanese RHD stock, so RHD fits. Arrival inspection + biosecurity water-blast treatment required.
Steering
RHD
Duties & taxes
Samoa charges ad-valorem customs duty (passenger cars fall in the top 20% band) plus 15% VAGST, and an additional Excise Tax by engine size that we could not ground to an official rate — so the figure below is a floor and our team confirms the exact excise before bidding. EVs and hybrids get concessions.

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Estimate only — duties, freight and last-mile delivery vary and policies change. Our team confirms exact, current figures on WhatsApp before any bid.

How to import a car from Japan to Samoa

  1. Confirm age eligibility

    The packet data indicates Samoa applies an approximate 8-year maximum age rule — so for 2026 that means 2018 or newer. Our team confirms the current customs requirement before shortlisting any car.

  2. We source it from Japan's auctions

    Using our licensed USS auction access, our team finds the right car, reads the auction sheet and condition grade, and verifies the odometer before you commit. Right-hand drive is the only suitable option for Samoa.

  3. Pre-shipment inspection and documentation

    We arrange a pre-export inspection in Japan and compile the full customs package — invoice, Bill of Lading, and the documents Samoan customs needs to assess duty and excise.

  4. Shipping and customs clearing

    The car is booked onto a vessel to Samoa. On arrival our team handles customs clearing — duty, excise and VAGST — and coordinates the roadworthiness inspection before delivery to you.

Import duties & taxes in Samoa explained

When importing a car from Japan to Samoa, customs duty, excise and VAGST all apply to the imported value. The exact rates depend on the vehicle type, engine size and current tariff schedule — our licensed team confirms the exact, current figure for your car.

Popular Japanese cars for Samoa

  • Honda Fit

    The Honda Fit is a popular choice across Pacific island markets — compact, fuel-efficient, right-hand drive from Japan, and available in hybrid to reduce running costs on Samoan fuel prices.

    See prices

  • Toyota Corolla Axio

    A dependable family sedan well-known to Samoan mechanics, with a proven 1.5L engine and strong resale value across the islands.

    See prices

  • Suzuki Swift

    Light, easy to drive and economical — ideal for the roads around Apia, with low maintenance costs that make it a sensible first import for budget buyers.

    See prices

  • Toyota Probox

    The workhorse choice for Samoan businesses — tough, practical and cheap to run, with right-hand drive sourced direct from Japan's domestic fleet market.

    See prices

Frequently asked questions

Is there an age limit to import a car from Japan to Samoa?
The packet data indicates approximately 8 years — meaning 2018 or newer for 2026. Our team verifies the current customs notice before sourcing begins, and we only shortlist compliant cars.
Does Samoa accept right-hand-drive cars from Japan?
Yes. Samoa switched to left-hand traffic in 2009 and right-hand-drive vehicles are the standard on Samoan roads. Japan's domestic stock is almost entirely right-hand drive, making it a perfect source market.
What taxes apply when importing a car to Samoa?
Customs duty, excise and VAGST all apply. Our licensed team confirms the exact rates for your specific vehicle and quotes the full landed cost before you commit.

Other import-cost guides