The total import tax is a combination of several duties, including Custom Import Duty (CID), Surcharge, Excise Duty, Luxury Tax, and VAT. The exact amounts depend on the vehicle's CIF value, engine/motor capacity, fuel type, and age. Our online calculator simplifies this complex process by applying the most recent 2025 Gazette rates to provide you with an accurate estimate instantly.
CIF stands for Cost, Insurance, and Freight. It is the total value of the vehicle when it arrives in Sri Lanka, including its purchase price, shipping costs, and insurance. This value, converted from JPY to LKR, serves as the base for calculating several key taxes like the CID and VAT. The accuracy of your CIF value is crucial for a precise tax estimate.
Yes, hybrid vehicles, including petrol hybrids, diesel hybrids, and plug-in hybrids, have different excise duty rates compared to conventional petrol or diesel cars. The tax structure is designed to promote more environmentally friendly vehicles. Our calculator is updated to reflect these special rates, ensuring you get a correct tax figure for your specific hybrid model.
Understanding the different types of taxes that make up the total vehicle import cost is key. Below is a breakdown of the main taxes applied in Sri Lanka:
This is a base tax calculated as 20% of the vehicle's CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.
An additional 50% tax applied on top of the Customs Import Duty (CID), effectively increasing the total CID to 30% of the CIF value.
This is a significant tax determined by the vehicle's engine capacity and fuel type, based on the latest Excise Duty Gazette. The rates vary based on the vehicle's classification and engine size (in CC or kW).
A tax applied when a vehicle's CIF value exceeds a specific threshold, which varies by fuel type. The tax rate also changes depending on the vehicle type.
An 18% Value Added Tax is charged on the total of the CIF value plus all other taxes (CID, Surcharge, Excise Duty, and Luxury Tax). See the official Customs Duty and VAT Gazette for more details.
All vehicle taxes in Sri Lanka are determined by the Harmonized System (HS) codes. These international classifications categorize different vehicle types, such as petrol (8703.2x.xx), diesel (8703.3x.xx), and electric (8703.8x.xx) vehicles. Our calculations are based on the rates corresponding to these codes.
Important Note: Our Vehicle Tax Calculator is designed to calculate duties only for standard motor cars within the HS codes listed above. It does not support calculations for special-purpose vehicles such as hearses, ambulances, or other commercial vehicles.