How to export Electric cars from the UK to China
To export electric cars to China, classify the model under HS 870380, resolve Chinese compulsory certification before import and prepare the UK export declaration. Both Chinese tariff lines carry 15% MFN duty, with import VAT adding to landed cost. Cambridge China Bridge’s own staff in China find and check Chinese importers and distributors for UK brands.
Choose the import route for electric passenger cars
Electric passenger cars fall under HS 870380, with Chinese tariff lines 87038010 and 87038090. Start by matching the model to the Chinese tariff line and checking compulsory certification coverage before agreeing shipment. These cars are absent from the cross-border e-commerce retail import list, so do not build your sales plan around that listed route.
HMRC recorded £9.2m of UK goods exports to mainland China under HS 870380 in 2025 (2024: £19.2m, -52%). Exports to Hong Kong under the same codes were £6.8m. January to month 7 of 2026: £396k against £7.3m in the same months of 2025 (-94.6%).
Resolve compulsory certification before shipment
The Chinese compulsory certification reference table includes cars under commodity code 8703800090 and specifies third-party certification. This reference code is separate from the Chinese tariff lines above. Ask the importer to confirm with the relevant authority whether your model falls within the catalogue and what certification arrangements and timing apply. Plan approvals in months, not weeks; the Chinese authority decides the outcome.
Price against Chinese duty and import VAT
Both Chinese lines carry a 15% MFN rate. Import VAT is normally 13%, calculated on customs value plus duty plus any applicable consumption tax. These charges increase the importer’s landed cost and shape the price it can offer you. The importer’s customs broker or adviser confirms whether consumption tax applies to these cars.
| Chinese tariff line | Rate |
|---|---|
| 87038010 | 15% |
| 87038090 | 15% |
Prepare the UK export declaration
For exports from England, Scotland or Wales, obtain a GB EORI and classify the cars using the correct UK commodity code. The online export declaration needs the value, weight, packaging, destination, transport details and invoice and packing list references. Give the carrier the invoice and any export licences or certificates. Agree who will make the declaration before handing over the cars.
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Find and check a Chinese importer
Ask a prospective importer to explain how it will resolve your model’s certification coverage and tariff classification. Have its customs broker confirm the proposed border-tax calculation before you settle the commercial price. Match the certification arrangements and export documents to the cars you intend to supply.
Our own staff in China find and check Chinese importers and distributors for UK brands. If an importer has approached you, they check that company before stock is sent or anything is signed. We prepare registration and label work with licensed partners in China; the importer of record stays with those partners and your own filings stay yours. See our export support.
Frequently asked questions
Do electric cars need Chinese compulsory certification?
The reference table includes cars under 8703800090 with third-party certification. Ask the importer to confirm with the relevant authority whether your model falls within the catalogue and what certification requirements and timing apply.
What Chinese import duty applies to electric cars?
Chinese tariff lines 87038010 and 87038090 both carry 15% MFN duty. Import VAT is normally 13%; the importer’s adviser confirms whether consumption tax applies.
Can I sell electric cars through cross-border e-commerce?
Electric cars under HS 870380 are absent from the cross-border e-commerce retail import list. Plan the shipment with an importer around classification and certification requirements.
What do I need to export electric cars from Great Britain?
You need a GB EORI, the correct UK commodity code and an export declaration. Prepare the cars’ value, weight, packaging and transport details, plus invoice and packing list references.