Easy Trade Africa Policy Interpretation: China Further Strengthens Used Vehicle Export Management

China has officially released the Notice on Further Strengthening the Management of Used Vehicle Exports jointly issued by the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), Ministry of Public Security (MPS), and the General Administration of Customs (GACC). As a company deeply engaged in the China–Africa vehicle trade ecosystem, Easy Trade Africa provides the following comprehensive interpretation to help international importers understand the new regulatory framework that will significantly influence global used vehicle supply chains starting 2026.

1. Stricter, More Standardized Used Vehicle Export Management

1.1 Tight Control on “New Vehicles Exported as Used Vehicles”

Beginning January 1, 2026, any vehicle applying for export with a registration age of less than 180 days (including 180 days) must submit a “Post-Sale Maintenance Service Confirmation Letter” issued by the vehicle manufacturer.The letter must include:

• Export destination country

• Vehicle information

• Overseas after-sales service network details

• Official corporate seal of the manufacturer

No export license will be issued without this document.

For vehicles that already completed transfer-registration procedures before the implementation date, local authorities must guide enterprises to complete exports in an orderly manner according to existing contracts.

Interpretation (Easy Trade Africa):This measure aims to eliminate the widespread practice of exporting nearly new or brand-new vehicles under the label of “used,” thus protecting overseas buyers and ensuring authenticity and transparency. Buyers should expect higher documentation standards and longer preparation times for low-mileage vehicles.

1.2 More Transparent & Standardized Export License Application

The notice mandates that all export license applications must fully match the vehicle’s official Motor Vehicle Registration Certificate, including:

• Brand

• Model

• Registration date

• Transfer-for-export date

Failure to accurately complete these details will result in rejection of the export license.

MOFCOM will monitor all submissions and publicly report enterprises with repeated violations.

Interpretation:Exporters must strengthen compliance and document management. Buyers can expect reinforced transparency in every step, reducing the risk of fraudulent documents or manipulated registration data.

1.3 Establishing Dynamic Supervision & Exit Mechanisms for Exporters

Local commerce authorities must strengthen:

• Credit evaluation systems

• Monitoring of daily operations

• Enforcement of the “Used Vehicle Export Negative List of Dishonest Behaviors”

Enterprises that:

• Engage in repeated dishonest behavior

• Fail to provide after-sales parts or technical support

• Fail to fulfill quality guarantees

• Or attempt to re-establish a new entity to bypass penalties

…may face:

• Rectification orders

• Delayed or denied export license approvals

• Possible exit from the used vehicle export system

Interpretation:This is a major step toward creating a transparent and fair market. Buyers should prioritize exporters with strong compliance histories and avoid those with poor credit or repeated violations.

2. Strengthened Compliance Review for Modified Vehicle Exports

Strict Verification of “Modified Vehicle” Export Applications

Exporters must accurately declare:

• Original chassis brand

• Modified vehicle brand

• Vehicle model

They must also submit authentic modification evidence.Export licenses will not be issued if:

• Modification authenticity cannot be proven

• The modified model is not listed in MIIT’s Road Motor Vehicle Production Enterprises and Products Announcement

• The vehicle lacks required national certifications (such as CCC)

Authorities will also:

• Inspect the exporter’s production capacity

• Review consistency between export volume and modification capabilities

• Report irregularities to MOFCOM

Interpretation:This measure targets misuse of the “modified vehicle” category to bypass export rules. Buyers should expect more rigorous verification and reduced availability of questionably modified vehicles.

3. Promoting Sustainable, Healthy Growth of Used Vehicle Exports

3.1 Enhancing Enterprises’ International Operation Capabilities

Authorities are directed to:

• Use trade platforms to help exporters expand global markets

• Support the establishment of overseas display centers

• Encourage development of integrated services: marketing, warehousing, after-sales

• Improve training and policy guidance systems

Interpretation:The government wants exporters to evolve into globally competitive service providers, not merely vehicle suppliers.

3.2 Improving Export Support Systems

Local authorities must promote:

• Stronger partnerships between exporters & OEMs

• Better overseas after-sales service systems

• Stable supply of spare parts & technical support

• Deeper cooperation with logistics, finance, and third-party warranty providers

• Development of specialized used-car export service hubs offering:

  • vehicle preparation

  • inspection

  • customs clearance

  • logistics

  • one-stop services

Interpretation:International buyers—especially in Africa—will benefit from more professionalized services, better after-sales systems, and more reliable supply chains.

Conclusion: What This Means for International Buyers

The notice reflects China’s commitment to:

• Eliminating fraudulent practices

• Protecting legitimate overseas buyers

• Enhancing export quality and service capability

• Building a globally trustworthy used vehicle export system

Easy Trade Africa’s Commitment: As an established China-based sourcing and logistics partner for African markets, we will:

• Ensure full compliance with the new 2026 regulations

• Provide accurate documentation and transparent vehicle history

• Support third-party inspections

• Offer complete logistics, customs, and after-sales coordination

• Help clients adapt smoothly to the new policy landscape

Easy Trade Africa will continue to serve as your trusted bridge between China’s regulated export ecosystem and Africa’s fast-growing automotive market.

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This article is provided by Easy Trade Africa for informational purposes only. It reflects our interpretation of the official Notice by the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People's Republic of China, Ministry of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China and the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China titled “关于进一步加强二手车出口管理工作的通知” (Document No. 商贸函〔2025〕648号) published on the official government portal. Government of China

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Easy Trade Africa makes no warranties or representations (express or implied) regarding the completeness, accuracy, usability or legality of the information presented. The relevant laws and regulations may change and apply to specific cases differently. Readers and business partners should perform their own due diligence and seek independent professional advice where necessary.

Easy Trade Africa shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special or consequential losses arising from reliance on this article or its contents.