Kazakhstan enforces new import ban on certain vehicles

Tengrinews.kz – Updated vehicle import regulations have come into effect in Kazakhstan, introducing new restrictions primarily for private individuals. The changes were approved by the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC).

Under the new rules, individuals can no longer import certain types of used machinery and buses. This right is now reserved exclusively for legal entities and individual entrepreneurs that hold safety certificates recognized both in Kazakhstan and the European Union.

Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Industry, Mukhamed Andakov, clarified earlier that the restriction does not apply to passenger cars, but only to special-purpose equipment and buses.

In addition, amendments to the Customs Union’s technical regulation “On the safety of wheeled vehicles” have now taken effect. The key change means that individuals will no longer be able to obtain a Vehicle Design Safety Certificate (SBKTS) for cars not listed in a special EEC-approved registry dated June 30, 2017.

Without this certificate, vehicle owners cannot complete customs clearance, issue an electronic vehicle passport, pay the recycling fee, or register the vehicle in Kazakhstan.

The list of vehicles permitted for import by individuals includes:

• Passenger cars (excluding special medical transport);
• Motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters;
• ATVs, snowmobiles, and other off-road vehicles;
• Passenger transport seating up to 12 people, including the driver;
• Trucks with a gross weight of up to 5 tons.

In effect, Kazakhstanis can now import only the vehicle types included in this list for personal use. All other categories may only be brought into the country through certified business entities holding the appropriate safety documentation.