Used auto dealers feel the pain, want old car import ban lifted

Santo Domingo.- The used auto importers grouped in the Asocivu) on Monday said vehicle imports have fallen in the first six months, which in their view significantly affects the sector.

Asocivu president Jose Nina said dealers have imported only 1,133 autos during the first half, a decline he affirms has been occurring since 2010. “In that year our associates imported 5,369 vehicles and 4,781 in 2011."

He said the dealers promote meetings with the imports sector aimed at getting the 5-year limit ban lifted, by brining vehicles into the country in excellent conditions, at a low cost.

They also ask to be allowed to import 10 year-old vehicles and lower taxes."To buy a car of 200,000 peso a person has to buy a heap someone else has left or one which has passed through more than 10 owners. However if we are we allowed to bring 2002 autos, 2003, until 2005, in excellent condition and certifications, this will improve."

Nina spoke in a press conference to announce the Father’s Day Vehicle Fair, to be held July 26 to 30 at Ciudad Ganadera fairgrounds.