Come April 1, local importers of vehicles will be prohibited from importing vehicles outfitted with used tyres, as the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) endeavours to bring Guyana one step closer to the implementation of ‘Green Economy’ initiatives.
GRA, through a notice published in the Stabroek News edition of January 25, reminded importers that, as of April 1, 2017, used tyres for motor vehicles including motor cars, vans, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), pick-ups, buses and other similar vehicles will be restricted.
This restriction however, excludes heavy duty vehicles including trucks, lorries, vehicles used in the agricultural and industrial sector, and special purpose vehicles.
In keeping with Part II of the Second Schedule to the Customs Act (List of Restricted Imports), the GRA notice stated that,” imported vehicles shall be fitted with new tyres including spare tyres, prior to clearance and release of such vehicles in a manner to be determined by the Commissioner-General.”
“The GRA is therefore advising vehicle importers to ensure that imported vehicles are fitted with new pneumatic tyres. No pardon or extension will be granted beyond April 1, 2017,” the notice said.
Since the announcement of the government’s intention to bar the importation and use of used tyres locally by Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan in 2016, motorists have expressed mixed views.
While some welcomed the initiative on the premise of used tyres being contributing factors to vehicular accidents, others, particularly those in the used tyre industry have been outspoken against the proposal, claiming the ban would affect the employment of over 5000 youths in Guyana.
The latter, resulted in the formation of the Used Tyres Association of Guyana, who, in several interviews with Stabroek News, highlighted what they say were countless futile attempts to engage the government and other relevant stakeholders on the issue.
In spite of such objections, the Government of Guyana through the GRA remains resolute in their efforts to clamp down on the importation of used tyres to Guyana.
When contacted for a comment regarding the intended restriction, President of the Used Tyres Association, Allan Newark declined.
