ACIM concerned at second-hand imports

The Association of Car Importers last week disputed a government statement that 34 vehicles were registered every day between January and April of this year.

Although total registrations amounted to 4,098, ACIM said only 2,887 were new vehicle registrations. The remainder, 1,211, were used vehicles.

"Used vehicles account for 30 per cent of the total vehicle imports," it said. "The new car importation industry is being flooded by second- hand vehicles. Indeed, as at April 2002, 70 per cent of commercial vehicle imports are accounted for by used vehicles.

"The Association of Car Importers (ACIM) is concerned that this could have several economic repercussions, not least because our industry is responsible for a sizable tax contribution and several thousand jobs."

The ACIM noted that from November 30 this year brand new vehicles will require a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) to be imported into Malta. This is a certificate issued after rigorous testing and verification that the vehicle conforms to EU standards.

"ACIM welcomes these measures wholeheartedly in spite of an increased cost, since we view this as a step in the right direction. Our clients' safety and a respect for the environment are at the top of our agenda and we intend to keep it that way," it said.

"The CoC system is the consumer's only protection with regard to these vital concerns. However, it should be noted that CoCs are not required for second-hand vehicle imports and commercial vehicles. This implies double standards when it comes to consumer safety and the environment."