Chinese Vehicle Exports to Europe: Key Markets, Tariffs & Import Procedures

Europe's Top Import Hubs for Chinese Vehicles

Belgium: Europe's Primary Gateway

Belgium maintains its position as the leading entry point for Chinese vehicles entering Europe. Between January and August 2024, Belgium imported over 180,000 Chinese vehicles, ranking fifth globally among China's auto export destinations. The strategic ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge handle this massive volume, though recent EU tariff implementations have slightly moderated growth.

Netherlands: The Transit Powerhouse

The Netherlands witnessed a dramatic surge in Chinese vehicle imports, with values jumping from €0.1 billion in 2022 to €1.1 billion in 2023. Notably, about two-thirds of Chinese EVs entering the Netherlands are destined for other European markets. When excluding transit trade, China ranks as the fourth largest vehicle supplier to the Dutch market.

EU Import Trends: China's Growing Dominance

• 781,980 Chinese vehicles imported

China's Used Car Export Market Analysis: Africa Focus

1. Overview of China's Used Car Export Market

The Chinese used car export market has experienced significant growth since its official launch in May 2019. By March 2024, the market was fully liberalized, with initial export operations starting in key regions including Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Zhejiang (Taizhou), Shandong (Jining), and Guangdong.

From April 2019 to 2023, China exported a total of 367,000 used vehicles worth $8.74 billion. In 2023 alone, exports reached 274,500 units valued at $6.88 billion (approximately ¥43.9 million RMB at current exchange rates).

The market shows balanced exports between new energy vehicles (NEVs) and traditional fuel vehicles, with 138,000 NEVs and 136,000 fuel vehicles shipped. Notably, NEVs accounted for 60.6% of total export value due to their higher average prices.

Chinese used cars now reach over 160 countries and regions, with Belt and

Complete Guide: Exporting New Energy Vehicles from China to Dubai

1. Preparatory Phase

Market Research

Before exporting NEVs to Dubai, thorough market research is essential. This includes understanding local demand, consumer preferences, import policies, and regulatory standards. Vehicles must comply with GCC certification requirements, and exporters should verify registration feasibility with Dubai's RTA or other UAE transportation authorities if specifications don't match Middle Eastern standards.

Certifications and Licenses

Exporting NEVs requires specific qualifications. While authorized manufacturers can directly export branded EVs, other enterprises need proper licensing. According to regulations, new vehicle exporters must submit trade contracts, third-party evaluation reports, and vehicle registration certificates to commerce departments for export licenses.

Logistics Partner Selection

Choosing an experienced logistics provider like TopUsedCars.com is crucial for successful NEV

Complete Guide: Exporting Used Cars from China to Saudi Arabia

Key Certification Requirements for Saudi Market Entry

SABER Certification - Mandatory for All Imports

The Saudi Arabian government requires SABER certification for all imported used vehicles. This system consists of two critical components:

Product Certificate (PC): Valid for one year, this certificate confirms your vehicle meets Saudi technical regulations. Importers must register in the SABER system and select an approved conformity assessment body. TopUsedCars.com can assist with the entire application process, including preparing necessary test reports on vehicle performance and safety standards.

Shipment Certificate (SC): Required for each individual shipment, this is the final clearance document. Our team prepares the SC certification using your commercial invoice and packing list directly in the SABER system after shipment departure.

GCC Certification - Regional Standard Compliance

All vehicles must comply with Gulf Cooperation

China Car Export Guide to Saudi Arabia: Everything You Need to Know

Who Can Import Vehicles from China?

In Saudi Arabia, the following individuals are eligible to directly import vehicles:

• Saudi nationals
• GCC citizens residing in Saudi Arabia
• Holders of Saudi Iqama residence permits

The first two categories can import up to 2 vehicles per year, while Iqama holders can only import 1 vehicle every 3 years. With car prices in Saudi Arabia being higher than other Gulf countries, many residents prefer direct imports - creating excellent business opportunities for Chinese car exporters, especially used car dealers.

Eligible Vehicles for Export to Saudi Arabia

Vehicles must meet these requirements:

• Non-Israeli origin
• Left-hand drive (no converted RHD vehicles)
• Undamaged body with no accident history
• Never used as police/emergency vehicles or taxis
• Maximum 5 years old (10 years for used heavy trucks)
• Compliant with GCC quality standards
• Meeting Saudi fuel efficiency requirements

Key Regulations

Zhongtong Bus Expands Global Footprint with Record Chile Order and Strong Overseas Performance

Major Export Orders

On March 26, 2025, Zhongtong Bus celebrated the shipment of the first batch of 895 pure electric buses to Chile, marking the largest single export order of Chinese buses to Chile in recent years.

This shipment represents Zhongtong's third "super order" in three years. Previous major contracts include:

• 1,000 buses to Kyrgyzstan (May 20, 2023)
• 1,022 buses to Saudi Arabia (February 21, 2024)

Global Market Presence

As one of China's earliest bus manufacturers and a pioneer in new energy vehicle R&D, Zhongtong has established strong presence across multiple markets:

• Portugal: Largest NEV bus supplier
• Egypt: Pure electric buses operating at the Pyramids
• Singapore: Double-decker electric buses for public transport
• Operations across Central Asia, Middle East, Africa, Americas, and Europe

Recent Market Performance

• Saudi Arabia became Zhongtong's first overseas market to exceed 10,000

Exporting Electric Vehicles to Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide

Exporting electric vehicles (EVs) to Saudi Arabia involves a meticulous process to ensure compliance with local regulations and facilitate smooth customs clearance. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process.

Step 1: Ensure Compliance with SASO Regulations

- Understand SASO Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the standards set by the Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO), including safety, environmental, and quality management system requirements such as ISO/TS 16949 certification. This ensures your EVs meet the necessary technical and safety standards[5]. - Obtain SASO Certificate of Conformity: Apply for a Type Approval Certificate through SASO's JEEM platform by submitting the required technical file and documents, including the electric vehicle test report, material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the battery, and other necessary

Saudi Arabia's Automotive Market in February 2025: A Mixed Bag for Chinese Brands

Sales Overview and Brand Performance

In February 2025, the Saudi Arabian new light vehicle market saw a significant surge, with sales reaching 72,388 units, a 14% year-over-year increase. This growth continues the market's recovery trend observed since 2024. The cumulative sales for the first two months of 2025 totaled 140,311 units, representing a 10.9% increase compared to the same period last year[2][4%.

Key Drivers of Growth

The growth in sales can be attributed to several factors, including stable oil prices (projected to remain above $80 per barrel in 2025), increased government spending, and enhanced consumer confidence.

Market Dominance and Brand Performance

• Toyota: Led the market with a 26.2% market share, maintaining its strong position.
• Hyundai and Nissan: Followed closely, with Hyundai's Accent model showing a 36.9%