Japan's used vehicle export volumes surged to a record 410,000 units in the first quarter of 2026, driven by strong demand from Africa, the Middle East and South Asia.
Japan's used car export industry has kicked off 2026 with unprecedented momentum. According to data released by the Japan Used Motor Vehicle Exporters Association (JUMVEA), a total of 410,000 used vehicles were exported in Q1 2026 — a 14% increase over the same period in 2025 and the highest quarterly figure ever recorded.
Key Drivers of Export Growth
Several factors are fuelling this surge. The Japanese Yen has remained weak against the US Dollar, hovering around ¥155–¥160 per dollar, making Japanese vehicles exceptionally affordable for overseas buyers. Combined with a global shortage of new vehicle production capacity, buyers in developing markets are turning increasingly to quality used vehicles from Japan.
Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for the largest share of growth, with destinations including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe and Zambia posting double-digit increases. The Middle East — particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia — also recorded strong uptake, especially for Toyota Land Cruisers and Nissan Patrols.
Top Export Destinations — Q1 2026
- Kenya — 48,200 units (+18%)
- UAE — 39,700 units (+9%)
- New Zealand — 36,100 units (+4%)
- Pakistan — 31,400 units (+22%)
- Tanzania — 28,900 units (+16%)
- Uganda — 19,500 units (+21%)
- Zimbabwe — 17,300 units (+11%)
Most In-Demand Models
The Toyota Land Cruiser family continues to dominate, with the 200 Series commanding a premium on the global resale market. Compact SUVs including the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 are also experiencing strong demand as fuel costs make mid-size vehicles increasingly practical.
Commercial vehicles — particularly Toyota HiAce vans and Toyota Hilux pickups — remain the backbone of export volumes to African markets, prized for their durability and low running costs.
Outlook for Q2 2026
Industry analysts expect exports to remain elevated through the second quarter. Auction prices in Japan have risen modestly for high-grade vehicles, but the weak Yen continues to offset these increases from the buyer's perspective. JUMVEA forecasts full-year 2026 exports could exceed 1.6 million units — which would represent a new all-time annual record.
