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Big bikes to become affordable in India, government reduces import duty

BMW motorrad R 1300 GS
Written by News Team

Key Highlights

  • Union Budget 2025: Import duty on motorcycles reduced.
  • CBUs: Duty cut from 50% to 40% for bikes up to 1,600cc.
  • SKDs and CKDs: Duty reduced from 25% to 20% and 15% to 10% respectively.
  • Bikes above 1,600cc: Duty slashed from 50% to 30%.
  • Popular Brands: Harley-Davidson, BMW, Triumph, KTM to benefit.

In a significant move to make big bikes more affordable, the Indian government has announced a reduction in import duty on motorcycles. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman revealed the changes as part of the Union Budget 2025.

New import duty breakdown

The import duty on complete built units (CBUs) with engine capacities up to 1,600cc has been reduced from 50% to 40%. For semi-knocked down (SKD) units, the duty has been lowered from 25% to 20%. For completely knocked down (CKD) units, it has been cut from 15% to 10%. For motorcycles with engine capacities exceeding 1,600cc, the reductions are even more substantial, with the duty on CBUs slashed from 50% to 30%. SKD units from 25% to 20%, and CKD units from 15% to 10%.

Who will benefit from the new import duty structure?

This reduction in import duties is expected to lower the prices of premium motorcycles in the Indian market, making them more affordable for buyers. The move is likely to benefit popular brands like Harley-Davidson, BMW, Triumph, and KTM, which have a strong presence in the Indian market.

The decision to reduce import duties comes at a time when there has been a growing demand for premium motorcycles in India. Consumers are increasingly looking for high-performance bikes with advanced features, and the lower import duties will make these bikes more accessible.

The government’s decision is also seen as a step towards boosting the two-wheeler industry and promoting the import of high-quality motorcycles. With the reduction in import duties, manufacturers are expected to bring in more advanced models, offering consumers a wider range of choices

Our Thoughts

The reduction in import duties on big bikes is a welcome move for motorcycle enthusiasts in India. It will make premium bikes more affordable and accessible, allowing more people to experience the thrill of riding high-performance motorcycles. This decision is expected to boost the two-wheeler industry and promote the import of advanced models, benefiting both consumers and manufacturers.

Also Read: Volkswagen sues Indian authorities! Taxation rules were flouted?