Peru is one of the more accessible Latin American markets for a new BYD import, largely because of the Peru-China Free Trade Agreement. Under the FTA, many new China-origin vehicles qualify for 0% import duty, compared to a general MFN tariff of around 9% for vehicles outside the agreement (used vehicles outside FTA treatment also run near 9%). On top of duty, Peru applies 18% IGV — Peru's VAT equivalent — on the customs value plus duty. Unlike several of its neighbors, Peru also permits used-vehicle imports, generally up to 5 years old from year of manufacture, giving buyers more flexibility than markets that prohibit used commercial import outright.
Peru Duty, VAT and Age-Limit Facts
- New China-origin vehicles: many qualify for 0% import duty under the Peru-China FTA
- General MFN duty (non-qualifying): approximately 9%
- Used-vehicle duty: approximately 9%, generally permitted up to 5 years old
- VAT (IGV): 18% of customs value plus duty
- EV note: EV-specific tax incentives (ISC reductions) have been discussed, but implementation varies — confirm current status
- Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
- Steering configuration: left-hand drive (LHD)
How the Landed Cost Formula Works
Standard formula: FOB price + $1,450 fixed freight + insurance (1.1% of FOB) + import duty (0% x CIF if the model qualifies under the Peru-China FTA) + IGV (18% x (CIF + duty)) + $650 fixed clearance = Total Landed Cost.
Worked illustration using an indicative FOB of $19,000 for an FTA-qualifying new unit (illustrative only):
- FOB price: $19,000
- Freight (fixed): $1,450
- Insurance (1.1% of FOB): $209
- CIF value: $20,659
- Import duty (0% under FTA qualification): $0
- IGV (18% x CIF, i.e. 18% x $20,659): $3,719
- Customs clearance (fixed): $650
- Estimated Total Landed Cost: approximately $25,028
If a specific model or shipment does not qualify for the 0% FTA rate, the general 9% duty line would add roughly $1,860 to this example — still a moderate figure compared to markets with 20%+ general tariffs, which is part of why Peru is often an attractive entry point in the region.
The Used-Vehicle Option in Peru
Because Peru allows used-vehicle import up to roughly 5 years old, buyers looking for a lower entry price point have a real option here that isn't available in markets like Chile, Colombia or Egypt. The same landed cost formula applies to used units, using the used-vehicle duty rate and the vehicle's actual FOB value. Age documentation and SUNAT compliance should always be confirmed with a licensed broker before ordering a used unit.
Why Peru Is Often an Entry-Point Market
Between the FTA-driven 0% duty pathway for many new units and the option to bring in used vehicles up to 5 years old, Peru offers more flexibility than most of the other Latin American markets covered here. Dealers testing a new BYD model in a smaller batch, or buyers with a tighter budget who want a younger used unit rather than a new one, both have a workable path in Peru — provided the FTA qualification or age documentation is confirmed in advance for the specific shipment.
Documentation for a Peru Order
A typical Peru import file includes the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and country-of-origin certification needed to claim FTA-preferential duty treatment on a new unit, or the applicable registration and age documentation for a used unit. Your Peruvian customs broker will confirm the exact certificate format SUNAT requires for your specific shipment.
Shipping Timeline to Peru
Sea freight to Peru typically runs 38-50 days transit, consistent with the broader Latin America range, plus local port clearance time.
Rates shown are indicative only — always confirm current duty, VAT and any EV incentives with a licensed customs broker in-country before ordering.
BYD Global Export is an independent export trading company and is not an authorized dealer or representative of BYD Auto Co., Ltd.
To confirm FTA duty qualification for your chosen model and get a full landed cost quote for Peru, reach out via WhatsApp.
