Auto Policy: Operators Seek NASS Intervention Over Duty Payable On Imported Vehicles

Apparently worried by what it called high tariff by the Nigeria Customs Service on import duty and the Federal Government’s proposed ban on importation of used vehicles into the country, the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON)  has written the Senate, seeking its intervention on the issue.

The association, which claimed that its members could no longer import cars into the country, following the hike of tariff by the Customs from 35 to 70 per cent on every imported car, also complained that the proposed ban on used vehicles, otherwise known as tokunbo cars, into the country was not only aimed at creating hardship for its members but also raising the level of unemployment in the country.

In the letter to the Senate, through the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, made available to newsmen, the body sought urgent intervention of the legislature, saying the two issues had negative toll on them, besides millions of people who worked for them to earn their living.

The letter, signed by the National President of the association, Ajibola Adedoyin, specifically requested the Senate to make a legislation ensuring not only perfect provision of rail system but also power in the country before take-off of the proposed ban on fairly used vehicles.

It also sought urgent review of the tariff regime to encourage importation of used cars for the reach of average Nigerians adding that many Nigerians  could not afford Nigerian assembled cars.

Speaking with media further, Adedoyin, who confirmed the authorship of the letter to the legislature, said the organisation had equally written for a meeting with the leadership of the two chambers of the National Assembly to address some burning issues affecting members of the association.

He said the national leadership, in conjunction with the state executive members of the association, had held a meeting aimed at taking a common position that would be presented.

The Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON) is an Abuja based association that specialised interest in used car sales.