Used Trucks Imported from China to Africa – Market Trends and Guide
According to the latest data, used trucks imported from China to Africa keep rising in volume. In 2024, the total export of second-hand vehicles from China was about 410,000 units. Also, that was an increase of 49.4% compared to the previous year. Similarly, the growth rate in the African market was about 8% – 10%. From January to May 2025, the export of Chinese vehicles (including second-hand vehicles) to Africa reached 222,000 units. In fact, that was an increase of 67% compared to the previous year.
Meanwhile, the number of cars in Africa is low. Per capita ownership is about 40 vehicles, and the demand is strong. As a result, the region mainly relies on imported second-hand vehicles. Besides, Chinese vehicles have occupied a share due to their high cost-effectiveness, low maintenance costs, and zero tariffs. For example, some popular countries have friendly policies. Ethiopia allows only new energy second-hand vehicle imports, while Nigeria has relaxed the age limit for vehicles. Also, Egypt encourages new energy vehicle models. Sina Finance. Also, we are a leading source for used trucks imported from China to Africa. To date, we have shipped to more than 20 countries.
Popular countries
Overall, the following are the major countries in Africa where Chinese used cars are exported in 2024-2025. Also, these countries account for a significant proportion of China’s used car exports to Africa. For instance, the top four countries account for over 62%. Meanwhile, Nigeria is the largest market, with an annual import volume of about 300,000 vehicles. Besides, other countries show distinct patterns. Egypt has clear consumption stratification (with great demand from the middle and low-income groups). Also, Algeria offers tariff preferences, and Ethiopia has lenient policies. Similarly, countries like Mozambique have a second-hand export ratio of over 80%. Meanwhile, South Africa, Angola, and Ghana are also experiencing rapid growth. Caijing.
Country-by-country snapshot
| Country | Key features and data |
| Nigeria | The largest used car market in Africa, with an annual import volume of 300,000 vehicles. China has a high export volume (exceeding 40 million US dollars in the first nine months of 2024), with the demand for pickup trucks accounting for over 50%. The policy has relaxed the age limit for vehicles. |
| Egypt | There is a clear consumption segmentation, with the middle and low-income groups favoring economy-type vehicles. Electric vehicle second-hand cars have become the new favorite, with export volume leading (exceeding 300 million US dollars in the first nine months of 2024). |
| Algeria | Tariff concessions promote imports. The export volume has significantly increased, with the focus on low and medium displacement vehicle models. |
| Ethiopia | Tariff concessions promote imports. The export volume has significantly increased, with the focus on low and medium-displacement vehicle models. |
| South Africa | The market is mature, with active Chinese brands and a high proportion of new energy vehicles. The export volume is expected to be approximately 157 million US dollars in 2024. |
| Angola | The demand is stable and the export volume exceeds 20 million US dollars. |
| Ghana | The demand is stable, and the export volume exceeds 20 million US dollars. |
| Mozambique | Used cars account for over 80%, and Chinese cars with low maintenance costs are popular. |
| Other countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, Libya, Tanzania, Namibia, and Uganda | There was also growth, but on a smaller scale. |
Popular Models (Top 3 Categories and Examples of Popular Sentiments)
In fact, the road conditions in Africa are complex and dusty. As a result, economy cars with medium to low engine displacement (1-3L) are the most popular. They cater to the middle and low-income groups. Also, popular models are characterized by durability and high cost-effectiveness. Besides, both fuel vehicles and new energy vehicles are available. The proportion of new energy vehicles is gradually increasing to 60%. In Nigeria, the demand for pickup trucks exceeds 50%; in Egypt, used new energy vehicles are popular. Meanwhile, the prices of Changan series vehicles in Africa are often more than twice the domestic prices. In addition, the profit per vehicle exceeds 100,000 yuan. East Money Research.
1. Pickup truck (commercial durable type): Suitable for complex road conditions and transportation needs. These vehicles have a high proportion in countries like Nigeria.
For example, common models include Great Wall Truck and Jiangling Yuhu.
Also, they are economical and practical, with strong load-carrying capacity and low maintenance costs.
2. Economy cars: Designed for middle and low-income groups, they are the preferred choice for urban commuting.
Besides, examples include Geely and Chery.
Moreover, they offer high fuel efficiency, an affordable price, and easy maintenance.
3. SUV (Multi-purpose): Suitable for diverse terrains in Africa, catering to both family and off-road needs.
For instance, examples include Haval H6 and Chery Ruiguo series.
Also, they offer strong functionality and ample space, suitable for handling various complex road conditions.
Also, other emerging trends matter. New energy vehicle models (such as electric SUVs) have become popular in Egypt and Ethiopia. In fact, the export value of new energy vehicles accounted for 60.6% in 2023. Overall, Chinese vehicles precisely meet African demands through zero tariffs and low costs.
Key data and the secret code for developing the market
- In 2024, the total export of second-hand vehicles from China was nearly 500,000 units (actual figure: 410,000 units). Also, the growth rate in the African market was 8%-10%. Besides, among the exports to Africa, the total value of medium- and low-displacement vehicles exceeded $ 3 billion. Voc.com.cn.
- Trend in 2025: The total export has exceeded one million units. The African market continues to grow at a high rate (222,000 vehicles exported in the first 5 months). The profit is high. Also, the key to development lies in three things. Firstly, choose the right models, such as economy fuel vehicles for Africa. Secondly, leverage policies such as zero tariffs. Thirdly, maintain a complete parts supply chain. China BGAO.
🔗 Related Products
- China HOWO heavy truck
- HOWO TH7
- Shaanxi Automobile used a dump truck
- Great Wall Pickup Truck – Windjun 6
Popular Markets: Nigeria → Kenya →
About the Author
Wang Jianbin is the founder of HebeiCar (hebeicar.com), a China-based used truck exporter. Since 2014, he has helped 500+ fleet owners and dealers across 20+ African countries — Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, DRC, Ethiopia and more — source quality used HOWO, Shacman, FAW and FOTON trucks at factory-direct prices. Every truck is inspected in his own yard in Shijiazhuang, Hebei before shipping, and he writes about import procedures, shipping logistics, customs clearance and truck selection based on that real export experience.
Watch real inventory walkaround videos on the YouTube channel, or contact Wang Jianbin directly for current inventory and CIF prices via WhatsApp.
Related guides by HebeiCar
Ready to import? Then read the 2026 used truck price guide and compare landing costs on our shipping & CIF guide. Also, you can jump to a market guide: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Zambia.
