Home › Guides
Rwanda’s EV tax exemption, explained
The single biggest reason EVs are getting affordable in Rwanda - but it applies to PURE EVs only. Here is exactly what is exempt, and the trap with hybrids.
Pure electric (BEV)
0% import duty, 0% VAT, 0% excise - full exemption through 30 June 2028.
- The vehicle, its batteries and charging equipment are all exempt.
- Cuts landed cost by roughly 25–30% (a ~$30k EV lands near ~$21k).
- EV-charging electricity capped near the industrial rate (~$0.10/kWh).
Source: Automag.rw · Updated Jun 2026
The catch: hybrids are different
Plug-in hybrids and conventional hybrids do NOT get the full pure-EV exemption - their duty and excise are treated separately and have changed. Do not assume the EV deal applies.
Other incentives
- Charging electricity capped near ~$0.10/kWh.
- 30% of government vehicle procurement mandated electric.
- Reduced 15% corporate tax + rent-free land for EV-charging businesses.