How’s Zimra Duty Calculated
Calculating car duty in Zimbabwe involves a multi-step formula managed by ZIMRA (Zimbabwe Revenue Authority). As of January 2026, there have been slight adjustments to the tax rates, specifically an increase in the standard VAT rate.
The calculation is based on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) of the vehicle.
| Step | Component | Calculation |
| 1 | VDP (Value for Duty Purposes) | CIF value+ Incidental Charges (Port fees, etc.) |
| 2 | Customs Duty | VDP}x text Duty Rate (e.g., 40%) |
| 3 | Surtax (if vehicle > 5 years old) | VDP x 35 |
| 4 | VTP (Value for Tax Purposes) | VDP + Customs Duty |
| 5 | VAT (Value Added Tax) | VTP x 15.5 (Updated for 2026) |
Customs Duty Rates 2026
- Standard Passenger Cars: Generally 40%.
- Hybrid: 40%.
- Pick-up Trucks/Single Cabs: Ranges from 20% to 40% depending on the payload.
- Double Cab: 60%
- Panel Vans: Ranges from 20% to 40% depending on the payload.
- Buses/Large Passenger Vehicles: Can be up to 60%.
For trucks and machinery duty go to Truck duty calculator,
Other Charges
- Surtax (35%): Applied to almost all passenger vehicles older than 5 years. Commercial vehicles and trucks don’t incur surtax
- VAT (15.5%): Effective January 1, 2026, the standard VAT rate increased from 15% to 15.5%.
- Luxury Surcharge (30%): Applies to vehicles with an FOB (Free on Board) value of US$120,000 or more..
Disclaimer: This calculator is for estimation purposes omly. ZIMRA has the right to change rates as it see fits. We shall not be responsible for any losses incurred.