Regional Focus: How U.S. Cars Dominate the African Market (2025 Update)

29.10.2025

In recent years, the African automotive import market has been increasingly shaped by vehicles sourced from the United States. From rugged SUVs to used pickups, American cars are playing a key role in meeting a growing demand for mobility across the continent. For logistics and export companies like All Cargo Export, understanding this trend offers strategic advantage in routing, packaging, and destination-services.

 

The Numbers Behind the Opportunity

According to export data, U.S. vehicle exports to Africa (HS code 87) totalled approximately US$2.93 billion in 2024. US Import Data Meanwhile forecasts by Mordor Intelligence estimate the African used-car market at USD 48.68 billion in 2025, expanding at a 2.24 % CAGR to 2030. Mordor Intelligence These figures reveal a thriving market-segment for U.S. exporters and logistics firms.

Key findings include:

  • SUVs and multi-utility vehicles (MUVs) comprised about 60.39% of the Africa used-car market in 2024. Mordor Intelligence

  • Petrol-engine vehicles held 68.33% market share in 2024, though hybrid and EV imports are growing with an 11.15% CAGR through 2030. Mordor Intelligence

  • South Africa alone represented 26.88% of the continent’s used-car market share in 2024. Mordor Intelligence

Taken together, these statistics show that American vehicles — known for durability, brand strength, and wide availability — are well positioned to meet African demand.

 

Why U.S. Cars Are Gaining Traction in Africa

1. Affordability & Availability

Used vehicles sourced from auctions and dealerships in the U.S. often cost less than new imports into African markets. For many buyers, affordability is key, making American cars attractive.

2. Model-Suitability

American-made SUVs, pickups and trucks perform well on varied road conditions found in Africa. With strong ground clearance, durable suspensions and overall capacity, they match both urban and rural mobility needs.

3. Supply Pipeline & Export Readiness

The U.S. market has large vehicle inventories, including used and certified pre-owned cars. Export logistics are well-established, containerised shipping is efficient, and export routes from U.S. ports to Africa are matured.

4. Growth of Digital & Trade Channels

Digital platforms and cross-border auto trader networks are facilitating vehicle export from the U.S. to Africa, providing transparency and wider access for dealers and end buyers.

 

Logistics & Export Considerations for Africa

a) Route & Transit Factors

When shipping to Africa, U.S. exporters typically utilise containerised shipping or Ro/Ro depending on destination port, vehicle type and budget. Container shipping offers higher protection — useful for premium/large vehicles.

b) Port Proximity & Export Hubs

Location matters. Exporters near major U.S. ports like the Port of Savannah benefit from shorter inland transport, faster export processing and better access to global routes. For Africa-bound shipments, this gives a cost/time edge.

c) Vehicle Condition & Specification

Many African markets allow importation of used cars but may impose age-caps or emission regulations. Exporters must ensure correct documentation, inspect condition, and prepare for local compliance.

d) Customs, Duties & Documentation

Import duty rates, value-added tax (VAT), and local registration rules vary widely across African countries. Proper documentation (bill of lading, export declaration, vehicle title) and logistics support are crucial to avoid delays and hidden costs.

 

ow All Cargo Export Supports Africa-Bound Vehicle Shipments

At All Cargo Export, we understand the African vehicle export corridor. Based just minutes from the Port of Savannah, we deliver full-service support:

  • Secure container loading and photo reports

  • Transparent cost breakdown, including inland transport, port handling and shipping

  • Guidance on destination-port compliance, duties and paperwork

With our experience in global vehicle shipping and strategic U.S. port location, we help exporters and dealers navigate the export-to-Africa journey smoothly.

 

The African market represents a significant growth opportunity for U.S. vehicle exporters. Rising demand for American cars, especially SUVs and pickups, combined with favourable supply pipelines and logistics readiness, makes this corridor increasingly competitive. For logistics partners, aligning services — such as container shipping, documentation support and destination-specific routing — is essential.

With All Cargo Export on your side, exporting U.S. vehicles to Africa becomes a competitive, efficient and reliable process.