Why Overseas Buyers Choose Chinese Cars (Africa & Middle East Guide)

Chinese cars have become a major force in global automotive markets. In Africa and the Middle East, buyers are increasingly turning to brands like BYD, Chery, and Changan — not just because they are affordable, but because the technology and reliability have greatly improved in recent years. Many dealers also prefer Chinese cars due to strong after-sales support and faster access to spare parts.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to import Chinese vehicles—especially if you’re sourcing for dealerships, fleet operations, or local reselling. You’ll also learn how Guiyang Silu Auto Technology Co., Ltd., a state-approved automobile exporter, supports customers with full logistics, documentation, and customs coordination.

What You Will Learn in This Guide

How to choose the right models for your local market
Export specifications that affect customs clearance
Shipping options and cost structures
Required documentation and inspection
How a professional exporter simplifies the process

Popular Models for Africa and the Middle East

Choosing the correct vehicle for your market is critical. These models are among the top-requested:

BYD — strong lineup of electric and hybrid vehicles, ideal for cities and commercial fleets
Chery — durable SUVs and compact sedans, good fuel efficiency
Changan — stylish design with modern safety features, suitable for wide customer segments

Many importers focus on these models as they offer excellent resale value and attractive financing options.

Confirm Export Specifications Before Ordering

Before finalizing the deal, buyers should double-check:

Steering side (LHD/RHD based on target country)
Emission standards (Euro II–VI or local equivalent)
Battery certifications for NEVs
Airbags and safety compliance documents

A missing compliance document may delay customs clearance by weeks—sometimes months.

Documentation Provided by Guiyang Silu Auto

Every shipment includes a complete certified export pack:

Commercial invoice and packing list
Certificate of Origin
Export customs declaration
Pre-shipment inspection & condition report (for used cars)
EV and battery compliance certificates (if required)

This ensures a smooth customs process once vehicles arrive at their destination port.

Shipping Options: Choose Based on Your Business Model

There are three main shipping choices:

Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off): Best for bulk shipments with lower costs
Container Shipping: Better protection for high-value models or mixed cargo
DDP Shipping: Duties and taxes included in a single price for predictable cost planning

Many first-time importers choose DDP because it reduces financial risk and avoids paperwork confusion.

What Determines the Landed Cost?

Your final budget usually includes:

Purchase price from the supplier
Inland transport to port in China
Ocean or air freight
Marine insurance
Import duties & VAT
Port charges and local registration fees

We provide sample cost calculations for key routes such as China → Lagos, Dar es Salaam, Jeddah, Kuwait, and more.

Customs and Local Registration — Not the Same Everywhere

Each country has different car-import rules. Some require:

Type approval certificates
Used-vehicle age restrictions (common in many African regions)
Emission grade verification

The earlier you prepare required paperwork, the faster your vehicles get on the road.

Vehicle Inspection & Quality Control

Whether new or used, buyers should always request:

VIN confirmation
Full vehicle photo set
Technical check report
Test videos if required

Our overseas warehouses in Russia, Belarus, Uzbekistan, and Myanmar also support on-site verification.

Avoiding Common Risks in Car Importing

Here are the mistakes we help customers avoid:

Working with exporters without state-approved qualifications
Hidden costs due to unclear tax calculation
Vehicles failing customs checks because of wrong specs
Up-front full payment with no inspection rights

Partnering with a licensed exporter significantly reduces these risks.

Why Work With Guiyang Silu Auto Technology Co., Ltd.

We are:

✔ A state-approved automobile export enterprise
✔ Serving 60+ countries including UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan & more
✔ Offering new & used cars, commercial vehicles, NEVs, construction machinery and special vehicles
✔ Providing procurement → export → logistics → customs → after-sales in one chain

Our goal is to become China’s leading used-car exporter by delivering reliable service and strong product support.

Quick Checklist Before You Order

Confirm import rules in your country
Request a landed-cost quotation
Decide on shipping method
Verify specs and documentation
Book inspection for used vehicles

With preparation, importing becomes much faster and more profitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you export to my country?
A: Yes, we ship to most African & Middle Eastern markets. Share your destination port and target models for a tailored export plan.

Q: What is the best shipping method for small dealers?
A: A shared container or small Ro-Ro booking usually reduces cost while protecting the vehicle.

Q: Do you assist with customs clearance?
A: Yes. We prepare compliance documentation and coordinate with local agents for clearance and registration.

Q: Can I mix new and used cars in one shipment?
A: Yes, but separate inspection documents are required. We will guide you step-by-step.

Q: What guarantees do you offer for used cars?
A: We provide official condition reports and photos before shipping, plus help resolve discrepancies if needed.