Overview
Chile has the most open vehicle-import regime in Latin America — low duty, a straightforward process and the Iquique free zone (ZOFRI) widely used for regional transit. That makes it a favourite entry and re-export point.
Why Chinese EVs for Chile
Simple clearance, low duty and strong public-sector EV adoption make Chile an easy, low-risk market for China-origin left-hand-drive EVs.
Import duty & taxes
Chile applies roughly 6% customs duty plus 19% VAT. There are no age limits on new vehicles and the process is transparent compared with neighbours.
Step-by-step import process
- Request a CIF quote to San Antonio, Valparaíso or Iquique (ZOFRI).
- We prepare export documents from China.
- Units ship to your Chilean port or the free zone.
- Homologation via 3CV and standard customs clearance.
- Register and deliver — or re-export from ZOFRI.
Documents you will need
- Commercial invoice and packing list
- Bill of lading (RoRo or container)
- Certificate of origin (China)
- Vehicle conformity / type-approval certificate
- Battery / dangerous-goods documentation for the EV
EV incentives
Growing EV incentives in public and corporate fleets, plus low-emission-zone advantages in Santiago.
Common pitfalls
Homologation (3CV) is the main step to plan for; otherwise Chile is among the smoothest markets to clear.