With a strategic location and growing demand for sustainable transportation, Greece has become an important market for used car imports, mainly from China. The Government of Greece has implemented a regulatory framework to ensure the quality and safety of imported used cars while promoting eco-friendly mobility. In this paper, an in-depth analysis is given regarding Greece’s regulations on used cars imported from China with a focus on import policies, taxation, required documentation, and market insights.

Overview of Greece’s Automotive Market

The automotive market in Greece is expanding due to the country’s economic rebound and the shift towards green means of transportation. Greece is a left-hand-drive country having a relatively high density of car ownership at 600 vehicles per 1,000 people. Some car brands such as Toyota, Opel, Peugeot, Hyundai, and Citroen account for significant volumes in the market with consistent increase in sales over years. There is increasing attention towards electric vehicles which are heavily subsidized by the Greek government. In 2022, Greece registered car sales volume at 105,278 units marking a 4.4% rise compared to the previous year and 145,000 units were sold in 2023 showing an increase of 27.8%. The market for used cars experienced high demand attributed to factors like the Russia-Ukraine conflict resulting in increased prices for these products.

Import Policies for Used Cars from China

There are specific importation guidelines enacted by Greece to monitor emission standards and payment of environmental costs on their market for used vehicles:

•        Emission Standards: Every used car imported into Greece must at least satisfy Euro 4 emission requirements. To further promote the electrification process and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Greek government imposes additional environmental fees on used cars based on their emission standards.

•     Environmental Fees: The environmental fee charged for cars with Euro 4 emissions is 3000 euros whereas those having Euro 5 would pay 1000 euros. These funds are intended to support EV adoption through measures like offering subsidies for purchasing/leasing new energy vehicles and setting up charging infrastructures among others.

•      Registration with M.E.M.O: All imported used cars should be registered with Greek import used car registration office (M.E.M.O) giving detailed information such as chassis number, category, brand, model, engine capacity, CO2 emissions, and any other relevant information.

•      Penalties for Inaccurate Registration: Greek Infrastructure, Transport, and Networks Ministry’s General Secretariat conducts random checks of registration information every three months. If registrations are incorrect, people could be fined anything between 2, 000 and 500 euros.

Taxation Policy for Used Car Imports

Greece’s taxation policy for used car imports includes various fees and levies depending on the vehicle’s features.

•      Registration Fees: Calculated based on the difference between the new car's pre-tax retail price and the depreciation price, multiplied by a classification coefficient that considers CO2 emissions and emission standards.

•      Special Provisions: Hybrid vehicles receive a 50% reduction in registration fees while electric ones don’t pay at all.

•      Import Duty: A 10% import duty is charged on second-hand cars brought into Europe from non-member countries.

•      Value-Added Tax (VAT): Passenger vehicles from third countries attract a 24% VAT based on their taxable amount.

Documentation Required for Used Car Imports

The importation process of used vehicles from China necessitates the presentation of certain mandatory papers such as:

•      Original foreign car’s registration certificate.

•      Certificate showing all information on vehicle circulation date, registration number and deregistration date issued by state traffic and communication authority.

•      Vehicle arrival declaration (DVA).

•      Original invoice and proof of ownership.

•      Original registration certificate.

•      Certificate of conformity.

Market Dynamics and Future Outlook

The Greek automotive market has witnessed consistent growth with a high demand for used cars. Continual commitment from the country towards environmental sustainability could encourage them even more on this path by offering further incentives for green cars. The need for inexpensive, older vehicles shall remain strong due to economic factors as well as an ability for these models to meet changing pollution requirements and consumer preferences.

Summary:

Greece’s regulatory framework for importing used cars from China is designed to keep its roadworthy vehicles while promoting trade and economic growth. By understanding the import policies, taxation structure, and documentation requirements, Chinese exporters can navigate the Greek market effectively. As the market continues to evolve, these regulations will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Greece's automotive industry.

Please note that used car import tax rates and policies may change over time or be adjusted according to the latest regulations from the government. Therefore, it is advisable to confirm the most current tax information with relevant tax and customs authorities before importing.