Importing Electric Cars From China to Philippines: Here’s Everything You Need to Know
China’s global EV dominance has been critical for automakers worldwide, especially their Japanese and German counterparts. The Chinese government has been extremely supportive of the electric car industry in the country, which has been reflected massively in the production of Chinese electric cars. Filipino automotive dealers buy Chinese electric cars because of the cars’ cutting-edge technology and cost-effectiveness. The entire import process, including shipping and logistics, is carefully monitored to ensure seamlessness.
China is actively exporting EVs to the Philippines. While the country had been one of the leading names in the matters of importing EVs from China, the number has slightly declined in recent times. As of February 2025, the Philippines imported around 8225 units of Chinese EVs amidst the sudden global decline in EV exports from China. But importers are always on the lookout to get Chinese EVs.
Advantages of Importing Electric Cars from China to the Philippines
There are certain advantages of importing electric vehicles from China to the Philippines, as China’s EVs are cost-effective, advanced, and have attractive designs. China has been one of the largest importer of EVs in recent years.
Affordability of the Cars
China’s EV manufacturing industry exports the best quality EVs, as the products are highly reliable. The country has a high production scale and has been supported by its government through subsidies. Hence, China exports cars at an affordable price range. Besides, if Filipino dealers import Chinese EVs from Chinese auctions, the EVs will cost even less.
Diversity of EV Models
China’s EV market chain is versatile in delivering different EV models. Some brands are manufacturing New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), whilst others are producing Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). Filipino car dealers buy Chinese electric cars as the procurement experts emphasize on the efficiency of these diverse range of Chinese EV models.
Infrastructural Improvement
The Chinese EV industry is experiencing growth in the country. Hence, the improvement of manufacturing infrastructure has been imminent. The Chinese government is investing massively in the industry, enhancing the charging network in the entire country, and installing charging stations as well. Adoption of the advanced production measures has helped Chinese exports massively, as the export volume has increased.
Tariff Policies of the Philippines Regarding the Imports of EVs
In 2024, the Philippines extended the MFN Zero Tariff Rate on imports of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and EV components. Plus, the National Economic and Development Board (NEDA) of the Philippines has ensured that a provisional MFN zero-tariff import rate would be activated on 34 EV products until 2028.
These tariff policies imposed by the Philippine authorities will be crucial in importing EVs from China. Since the import duties are relieved, the selling price will also be lowered. Therefore, the car dealers in the Philippines will buy Chinese electric cars and have them shipped safely to their country. Moreover, it is also expected the retail sales of EVs will also rise significantly.
Process and Documentation Required for Importing Cars from China to Philippines
Having Chinese EVs imported to the Philippines involves some key steps, including documentation, processing, and appropriate shipping.
Choosing The Right EV Model
The Chinese EV vehicles can be chosen from the online marketplace and auto dealers that export Chinese cars internationally. Filipino car distributors look for quality EVs as well as luxury and passenger cars from China due to the cost-effectiveness and technologically advanced car models. Buying Chinese electric cars with zero tariffs would also benefit Filipino dealers as they can maximize their profitability.
Certification and Licensing
The importing dealer needs to get a Compulsory Product Certification (CCC) for every vehicle models. In addition, the environmental information of the EV model needs to be inspected and disclosed to the appropriate authority. The emission and pollution information for the vehicle must be declared before importing. Finally, an import license is required from the Philippines’ customs authorities.
Shipping Solutions
There are three ways in which Chinese EVs, which may have been purchased from Chinese auctions, can be shipped to the Philippines. The first and the most effective method is the Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) method, where the exporting cars are forked onto a transport ship. This is a vast cargo area that resembles a parking lot. This is one of the most affordable shipping options that importers opt for after buying Chinese electric cars.
In another method, a shared container export is conducted, where multiple vehicles are stacked inside a container. These containers are enclosed safely and unloaded directly at the port terminal of the destination country.
Custom Declaration
Once the Chinese EVs have arrived in the Philippines, the last task remaining is clearing customs. The customs declaration is highly important for importing dealers in the Philippines. The Custom process is done in a single window, which includes CCC verification, VIN information, and online custom verifications. In addition, the ECC certification also needs to be granted by the Philippines DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources). This ensures that the vehicle to be imported effectively meets the emission regulations of the Philippines.
Conclusion
Importing EVs from China would be beneficial for the dealers and individual distributors in terms of cost-effectiveness. Buying Chinese electric cars, the auto dealers and distributors in the Philippines are making it easy for the Chinese auto companies to expand in Southeast Asia. Reputable exporting partners make these international exporting processes smoother, and importers can remain stress-free.
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