In Japan’s used car market, where vehicles change hands in a matter of seconds, Kenyan-born car dealer James Kanyingi has carved out a niche.
Based in Japan since 2003, James runs T&I Japan, a trusted vehicle and machinery export business serving clients across East Africa and beyond.
James’ journey began with a scholarship that brought him to Japan to study international relations and business.
Fresh out of high school and a proud alumnus of Kijabe Boys, James never imagined that one day he would be trading thousands of cars to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa.
“Living in Japan taught me patience, humility, and how to build genuine relationships,” he says. “These values are what shape how I do business.”
A Peek Into Japan’s Fast-Paced Car Auction World
Unlike many countries where buying a used car can be a lengthy process, Japan’s car auctions are a different breed.
Every day, thousands of vehicles are listed across various auction houses. Registered dealers, like James, gain access to real-time digital bidding systems where vehicles can be bought or sold in mere seconds.
“These auctions are not for the faint-hearted,” James explains. “The bidding is fast. You must know what you want, set your limits in advance, and act quickly.”
Each vehicle listed in the auction system comes with a comprehensive inspection report. These include details about the car’s accident history, condition, mileage, previous usage, and even whether it was submerged in water.
“The level of transparency is high,” says James. “You know exactly what you’re bidding on before placing your offer. This reduces the risk and helps you make informed decisions.”
The Buying and Selling Process
James participates in auctions both as a buyer and a seller. He explains that before listing a car for sale, he sets a reserve price – the minimum amount he is willing to accept.
“If the bid comes close enough to my price, say within $10,000, the system sells it automatically. If it’s above, I make more profit. Either way, the transaction is finalized the same day, and I’m paid immediately,” he says.
Once a vehicle is purchased, T&I Japan handles the entire post-sale process. The car is transported to an inspection yard, documents are prepared within five to seven working days, and shipping logistics are arranged.
For clients in Kenya, James ensures all cars comply with the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) requirements, including the eight-year age limit from the date of manufacture to the date of export.
“Kenya only allows cars that are within a specific age range. If a car is more than eight years old from the manufacturing date, it won’t pass inspection. That’s why we’re very strict,” James adds.
Helping Kenyans Abroad and at Home
In addition to vehicle sales, James and his team assist diaspora returnees with duty exemption processes. He notes that many Kenyans living abroad want to send vehicles back home but often fall prey to fraudsters.
“There are many fake dealers. We always tell people to deal with accredited exporters and check for a solid track record,” James advises. “Trust and relationships are everything. If I scam one client, I lose an entire network.”
James is passionate about honesty and has built his reputation around integrity. He refuses to work with people who demand shortcuts and emphasizes that success in this business is built on consistency and transparency.
Challenges Along the Way
Despite the structure and efficiency of Japan’s auction system, James admits the business is not without challenges.
He recalls incidents where vehicles arrived in Mombasa with stolen keys, or worse, with entire engines missing during shipment.
“In one case, a car shipped to the Caribbean had its engine removed mid-transit. I had to follow up with the insurance company to ensure the client was compensated,” he recounts.
Delays in customs, miscommunication with clearing agents, and shifting duty rates in Kenya also complicate the process.
However, with over two decades of experience and a reliable network, James has learned how to manage such pitfalls efficiently.
Why Japan Remains the Top Vehicle Source for Kenya
Japan remains the largest exporter of vehicles to Kenya. Popular brands like Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki, Isuzu, and Mitsubishi dominate the market. Beyond cars, GEMS also deals in heavy machinery from brands such as Komatsu, Hitachi, and Caterpillar.
“The vehicles from Japan are reliable, well-maintained, and cheaper when bought through auctions. That’s why Kenyans prefer them,” James says.
His business partner, Masao Tanaka, has even visited Kenya on fact-finding trips to understand the market better, reinforcing their commitment to building cross-border ties.
A Life Transformed by Daring Abroad
Reflecting on his journey, James credits his success to taking the bold step of daring abroad.
“Shows like Daring Abroad helped me appreciate both my heritage and the opportunities out here,” he says. “I’ve seen parts of Kenya I never knew existed. I’ve seen the world — all because I dared to leave home.”