Importing a car to Mauritius
Import duty rates
| Engine size | Duty rate |
|---|---|
| Up to 550cc | 0% |
| 551–1000cc | 15% |
| 1001–1600cc | 45% |
| 1601–2000cc | 75% |
| Over 2000cc | 100% |
VAT (15%) and excise duty also apply on top, making total tax burden on a mid-size car 60–130% of its CIF value.
Drive on the left
Mauritius is left-hand traffic. European and American cars (left-hand drive) are impractical and may not be registerable.
No duty-free allowance for vehicles
Unlike household goods, there is no new-resident exemption for vehicles. Full duty applies.
Best approach
Buy locally. Used Japanese imports (Toyota, Honda, Nissan) are reliable, right-hand drive, and fuel-efficient. Budget MUR 300,000–900,000 for a good used SUV.