Japanese auto dealers demand lifting of ban on imports

TOKYO: Japanese auto dealers have sought lifting of ban on commercial import of used vehicles in Pakistan, which is seen as a catalyst to foreign reserves of the country.
“Pakistani government should consider the proposal of allowing commercial import of 5-year old vehicles,” said Javed Khan, president of Pak-Japan Auto Association after an annual meeting.
Khan said thousands of people are engaged in used automobile business.
Currently, Pakistan permits import of used vehicles under gift and personal baggage and transfer of residence schemes introduced for expatriates.
According to an estimate, Pakistan imports 25,000 to 30,000 used vehicles every year.
An independent think-tank has pointed out anomalies in the incumbent import policy.
Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT), in its latest report, said the import policy, which is meant for expatriates, is grossly misused.
“Unlike regional countries, Pakistan has a weak system to ensure that the transfer of residence and gift and baggage schemes are not misused.” The report attributed the misuse to the absence of technical barriers and standards.
PIDAT advised the government to restrict import to one vehicle per passport for a period of at least two years under the transfer of residence scheme.