Import Chinese Cars to Peru

Ports of entry and shipping from China

Callao is Peru’s main port. Its North Pier, run by APM Terminals, handles rolling cargo: in May 2026 it discharged close to 6,000 vehicles from a single vessel arriving from Asia, and its vehicle flow grew about 28% between 2025 and 2026^[4]. North of Lima, the Port of Chancay, operated by COSCO Shipping Ports, received 14 RoRo vessel calls in the first half of 2026, with services covering Asia, the west coast of South America, Central America and Panama’s hub ports^[5].

Vehicles from China can reach either port by RoRo or in containers; the better option depends on vessel schedules and on where your yard is. We confirm the route and estimated timeline in your quote.

Chinese-market vehicles are left-hand drive and electric models use the GB/T charging standard; check charging equipment and adapters for your market.

Import rules to check

• Steering: vehicles must have been built with the steering wheel on the left; right-hand-drive vehicles converted to left-hand drive are not allowed^[1][2].
• Used vehicles: used petrol vehicles may only be imported if they are no more than two years old, counted from the model year, and within mileage limits (32,000 km for passenger cars, category M1). Used light diesel vehicles are prohibited, and vehicles with substantial accident, flood or total-loss history are refused^[1][2].
• Registered-in-China vehicles: some export channels require vehicles to be registered in China before export (see our FAQ). Ask your customs broker whether such a vehicle would be treated as used in Peru, because the used-vehicle limits above would then apply.
• Selective tax (ISC): SUNAT has stated that new hybrid, gas and electric cars are outside the scope of the ISC charged on new petrol and diesel passenger cars^[3]. The general sales tax (IGV, 18%) applies to vehicle imports regardless of the powertrain^[3].
• Trade agreement: the Peru–China free trade agreement has been in force since 1 March 2010^[6]. Whether a specific vehicle qualifies for a preferential tariff depends on the tariff schedule and a valid certificate of origin, so ask your customs broker.

info Rules and tax rates change. Buyers should confirm the current rules with their customs broker before ordering. Import clearance, duties and registration are handled by the buyer or the buyer’s broker.