-
Between Supporters and Opponents... The Syrian Government Refuses to Import Used Cars
On Sunday, the Syrian Ministry of Economy and Industry issued a decision prohibiting the importation of used cars into the country. The decision allows the import of all types of new and unused cars, provided their manufacturing age does not exceed one year. The maximum age for imported cars is set at two years, with certain exceptions.
The resolution, numbered 462, confirms that the import of used cars will cease starting Sunday, June 29, with some categories exempted, including: tractor heads, trucks, public works machinery, and agricultural tractors, which should not be older than ten years from the date of manufacture, with the exception of the year of manufacture.
Additionally, public transport buses (with 32 seats or more) that are no more than four years old are exempted, along with importers who purchased cars before the issuance of the decision, provided they can prove the chassis numbers to the General Authority for Land and Sea Border Crossings before Sunday, July 6.
In the same context, Article 3 of the decision reiterates that the importation of new and unused cars must not be older than two years from the date of manufacture, restricting any imports older than that.
Earlier, in January, the Syrian government allowed the import of all types of vehicles and cars, provided they are no more than 15 years old. This reflects ongoing changes and adjustments in import policies according to needs and economic conditions.
It is noteworthy that the decision sparked wide debate. Supporters argue it aims to support local industry and curb smuggling, while opponents consider it restrictive and potentially harmful to the ability of importers and citizens to acquire cars at reasonable prices, especially in light of the rising prices of new vehicles.
