How to Import a Vehicle from China to Serbia
Serbia is one of China's key trade and economic partners in Central and Eastern Europe. With the official entry into force of the China–Serbia Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on July 1, 2024, import duties on Chinese-manufactured vehicles (including new energy vehicles and fuel-powered vehicles) entering the Serbian market have been significantly reduced, and some models are eligible for 0% import duty.
Pre-export Preparation
ZEEX AUTO will prepare the vehicle for you, complete all Chinese automobile export procedures, and arrange international logistics (if you need it).
We usually provide you with the following documents for customs clearance and registration in Serbia:
- Sales Contract
- Commercial Invoice
- Bill of Lading
- Vehicle Factory Qualification Certificate
- Vehicle Manufacturer's Manual
- Certificate of Origin
- Emission Certificate
- Copy of Vehicle Registration Certificate and Domestic Deregistration Certificate (China)
Import Procedures in Serbia
After the vehicle arrives in Serbia, you need to complete customs clearance as soon as possible. Please bring the documents provided by ZEEX AUTO and fill out Form 13.20A at the customs to proceed with the declaration process.
You also need to pay the following taxes and fees:
- Import or consumption tax (automobile consumption tax/vehicle tax): If FTA preferences apply, the tariff is 0%; if not, it is calculated at approximately 12.5% under HS Code 8703 (based on the customs-assessed vehicle value or CIF price).
- Serbian Value Added Tax (VAT): The standard rate is 20% (2025). VAT is calculated on (vehicle value + various taxes and fees) and collected upon import.
If you do not want to handle customs clearance yourself, you can seek professional service teams such as shippingwhale.
Technical Inspection
Vehicles undergo safety and emission checks by authorized institutions of the Serbian Ministry of Transport (e.g., AMSS).
1.Emission Standard
Serbia currently requires imported vehicles to meet at least Euro 3 (Euro 4 in some regions).
For Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), a "Zero Emission Statement" must be provided.
For Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), engine emission testing is required.
2.Battery Safety (UN38.3)
The UN38.3 test includes eight items, such as altitude, thermal, vibration, shock, short-circuit, and overcharge, to prove the safety of battery transportation and use.
Common testing institutions include CTI Testing & Certification Group, SGS, TÜV Rheinland, and China Automotive Technology & Research Center (CATARC).
Registration & Insurance
After passing the inspection, register the vehicle at the local traffic management office (AMSS) and purchase insurance.
Insurance generally includes mandatory Third-party Liability Insurance and optional Comprehensive Coverage.
Taxes & Incentives
| Tax Type | Rate | Notes |
| Customs Duty | 0% (FTA Preference) or 12.5% (General) | Levied on CIF value |
| VAT | 20% | Taxable Base = CIF + Customs Duty |
| Used Vehicle Tax | 0.5% - 15% | Floats by vehicle age and engine displacement |
| Registration Fee | €50 - €300 | Varies by local standards |
| Insurance Fee | Approximately 2 - 3% of vehicle price | Liability insurance is mandatory |
