Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA) has expressed concern over the illegal import of used cars witnessing plausible increase.
According to PAMA spokesperson, the number of imported used cars in September 2019 stood at 565 units whereas the combined figures of July and August were just 531 units. In October 2019, the imports further increased to 709 units which depicts that the import of used cars is on the rise again.
"The current government's strict policies were able to control illegal import of used cars as it came down in FY2018-19. This was quite a success on the part of the government and their policies started bearing fruits for local auto industry," he said.
"But it seems that importers have once again found a way to continue with their nefarious plans of denting the local auto industry," he said, adding that the situation is alarming and the numbers of imported vehicles have increased substantially in recent months.
"There are some media reports that importers are importing used cars on the passports of Pakistanis residing in Dubai and the cars are being dumped into the country," he added.
He said that the government should immediately look into this issue and must stop this practice in order to help the local auto industry as it is quite ironic that the government is not restricting the import of used cars; which is quite damaging to the environment, local auto sector, and the national economy.
"We are already facing the brunt of rupee devaluation, additional duties and an increase in interest rates. Now, misuse of imported used cars schemes will be very detrimental for industry. The government needs to promote trade/industrialization which will ultimately lead to employment opportunities, transfer of technology and open doors to export," he maintained.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2019
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