The United Arab Emirates has implemented a ban on the illegal import of damaged cars, which will come into effect from May 2017, after an investigation conducted by The National discovered the increasing number of defected cars.
The Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) stated that this ban will extend to cars that are fire-damaged, water-damaged, or reconstructed. Cars that have been written off in other nations cannot be registered, insured, imported nor resold in the UAE. A detection software will be utilized to find chassis history and convey to relevant authorities.
The Managing Director of SilberArrows, Julian Redman, advocates the ban on illegal import of damaged cars. He warned last year that these cars pose a threat to not only the driver and other occupants present within the vehicle but also to other cars on the road.
Abdullah Al Maeeni, Director-General of ESMA was quoted by Gulf News stating that the importers have time till April 30th to meet the regulatory standards. With over 300,000 used cars imported to the UAE market every year, it is not always possible to conduct a detailed inspection due to the high incoming volume.
From May, importers must declare which car is meant to be re-exported and which are for parts. The illegal import of damaged cars declines is threatening the people’s safety on the roads. This ban will help make the roads safer for motorists.