Clean cars: 0% import tariff

Decreto 49/2025 sets at 0% the Extra-Zone Import Duty (D.I.E.) for alternative-powertrain vehicles —hybrids (electric motor alongside or alternatively internal combustion), pure electric and hydrogen fuel-cell— with a FOB value of up to USD 16,000, with an annual quota of 50,000 units and 5-year validity from publication. The general extra-zone DIE rate for the auto sector is 35% (Mercosur standard tariff), so the measure takes that duty to zero, but that 35% does NOT appear in the decree text: it is the prior tariff context. Decreto 44/2026 (reported by press, Official Gazette Jan 26, 2026) would amend it: it would broaden the technological scope, allow carrying over the unused quota to the following year, keep the annual cap of 50,000 units and exclude motorcycles, mopeds and quads (categories L1 to L7). Decreto 44/2026 could NOT be confirmed in a primary source (Official Gazette/InfoLEG); its amendments are supported only by press. verif · Jan 31, 2025 ↗

Jan 31, 2025 (publication in the Official Gazette); the regime is valid for 5 years from that date (art. 7 of Decreto 49/2025). The Decreto 44/2026 amendment would take effect from Jan 26, 2026 per press (unconfirmed in a primary source). verif · Jan 31, 2025 ↗

Importers and automotive assemblers bringing in electric, hybrid or hydrogen vehicles with FOB ≤ USD 16,000; the quota of 50,000 units/year (~20% of the average light-vehicle sales) is allocated by call of the Secretariat of Industry and Trade. It also benefits the electric-mobility chain (chargers, aftersales) and consumers who access cheaper clean cars. verif · Jan 31, 2025 ↗