Can you import a Chinese EV into the Philippines? (2026)

CRAVEUO EV Export · Sources last checked 2026-10-29

Quick answer

Yes, as a new car. Battery-electric cars enter the Philippines at zero tariff until 2028, the zero rate was later extended to hybrids and plug-in hybrids, and in September 2026 the government was weighing a further extension (Context.ph, 2026-09-14; BusinessWorld). Used-car imports are banned, so only new cars. Whether an individual can import directly, and which permits apply, is decided by Philippine customs — check with them or a licensed customs broker before you order.

Key facts

Can I import a car from China to the Philippines?

A new car, yes; a used one, no. It must be left-hand drive: the jur.ph entry instructs vessels and carriers not to accept right-hand-drive vehicles. China-market cars are left-hand drive, but confirm it on your order.

Our sources do not say whether a private buyer can clear a car in their own name, or whether a permit or accreditation is needed first. Ask Philippine customs or a licensed customs broker before you sign, and keep the answer in writing.

Philippines EV import tariff 2026 and the 2028 deadline

The zero tariff covers battery-electric cars until 2028 and was later widened to hybrids and plug-in hybrids (BusinessWorld). In September 2026 the government was considering extending it again (Context.ph, 2026-09-14); no decision was reported. The tariff is one line of the landed cost: other border taxes are not in our sources, so ask the broker for a full estimate before you pay the balance.

Buy a Chinese car directly from China: how an order works

1. Choose the model, version and colour. Ask which charging inlet the export version has: China-market cars use the GB/T standard.
2. Receive a quote from the licensed Chinese export company named in the contract.
3. Ask a Philippine customs broker who can import the car and what permits you need.
4. Sign the contract. Nothing is paid before the contract is signed, and payment goes only to the company account on the invoice.
5. The exporter declares the car in China and books sea freight.
6. The broker clears the car in the Philippines. You pay the import taxes, and the car is delivered to your door (DAP).

Why export numbers are not Philippine sales

China's NEV exports to the Philippines were 205,197 units in January–September 2026 (Cui Dongshu, 2026-10-23). Local sales are far smaller: members of the carmakers' association CAMPI-TMA sold 463,646 vehicles of all types in 2025 (CarGuide), and the whole industry sold 34,426 vehicles in August 2026 (Autoindustriya). Our sources do not explain the gap, so read the export figure as shipments, not as cars Filipinos bought.

See our Philippines page for models we can quote.

To get a delivered quote, send your city, model and version through the inquiry form.