What is the age limit for importing Japanese cars to Cambodia?

No strict national age limit (permissive policy)

Import Japanese Car to Cambodia — Complete Guide 2026

Q: What documents do I need to import a car from Japan to Cambodia?

Export Certificate, Bill of Lading, Invoice, Insurance, CAMCONTROL customs entry

Age Limit

No limit

Import Duty

~35% total

~35% total: customs duty (15–35% by CC) + 10% VAT

Steering Side

RHD

Cambodia officially drives on the right but RHD vehicles dominate the market.

Transit Time

12–16 days

From Japanese port to Cambodia

✅ Age Check — No Restriction

Cambodia has no strict age limit on Japanese car imports. Any year vehicle can be imported (subject to emissions and roadworthy standards).

📍 Entry Ports

🚢 Sihanoukville Port 🚢 Phnom Penh Port

📋 Required Documents

📄Export Certificate

📄Bill of Lading

📄Invoice

📄Insurance

📄CAMCONTROL customs entry

🗂 Step-by-Step Import Process

Purchase vehicle from Japan

Ship to Sihanoukville or Phnom Penh

CAMCONTROL customs clearance

Pay import duty + 10% VAT

MPWT vehicle inspection

💰 Import Duty & Taxes

~35% total: customs duty (15–35% by CC) + 10% VAT

⚠️ Important: Duty rates change regularly. The figures above are based on 2026 rates and are for guidance only. Always confirm current rates with a licensed customs agent or freight forwarder in Cambodia before committing to a purchase.

🚫 Restrictions & Banned Vehicles

⛔No major age restrictions

⛔Higher duty for larger engine CC

🔍 Pre-shipment Inspection

MPWT (Ministry of Public Works and Transport) inspection on arrival.

🛡️ Safety Guide — Before You Buy

Always verify the auction sheet first. Get the original JP Sheet verification report before committing to any vehicle — confirms grade, mileage, accident history and all damage marks.
Check for flood damage. The Japanese inspector notes the word 冠水 (flood) in the auction sheet notes section. This is only visible with a full translation — never skip translation if buying for an important purpose.
Use a licensed freight forwarder who specifically handles Japan-to-Cambodia imports. They know local customs requirements, common delays and documentation pitfalls.
Verify the exporter. Check the company is registered, has verifiable reviews, and provides a full paper trail including export certificate and shipping documents.
Never pay full price before the car ships. A deposit is normal — paying 100% before shipping is a major fraud risk.
Check the chassis number matches across all documents — auction sheet, export certificate, bill of lading and invoice must all carry the same number.

💡 Import Tips for Cambodia

Cambodia is one of the most relaxed import markets in Asia. No strict age limits. Many high-end and unusual Japanese vehicles are found here that would be prohibited elsewhere.