Visham Babwah, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Automotive Dealers Association (TTADA), has voiced significant concerns regarding the government’s recent decision to extend the permissible age for importing foreign-used private vehicles. The new policy, announced by Minister of Transport and Public Aviation Eli Zakour on November 20, allows the importation of vehicles up to eight years old, a notable increase from the previous three-year limit. Additionally, the permissible age for light commercial vehicles, pickups, and panel vans with diesel engines has been raised from seven to ten years.
Babwah, who also serves as CEO of P&V Marketing Co Ltd, criticized the move, warning that it could position Trinidad and Tobago as a ‘dumping ground’ for older, less reliable vehicles. He emphasized the potential environmental and safety risks associated with importing vehicles that may have already exceeded 50% of their lifespan. ‘In 2010, we successfully lobbied for a six-year limit because vehicles older than that are often unreliable and harmful to the environment,’ Babwah stated.
While acknowledging that cheaper vehicles might appeal to some consumers, Babwah cautioned that older cars could pose significant financial and safety challenges. He highlighted potential issues with financing and insurance, noting that banks and insurance companies are often reluctant to support vehicles nearing the end of their lifespan. ‘People would have to conduct extensive checks on these vehicles, and they might face difficulties securing loans or comprehensive insurance,’ he explained.
The decision has sparked debate over its potential impact on the local automotive market and the broader implications for road safety and environmental sustainability. Babwah questioned the rationale behind the policy shift, stating, ‘It was announced in the budget that the permissible age would move from three to six years. I am not sure who advised the Minister to increase it to eight.’
Minister Zakour also mentioned that Trinidad and Tobago currently lacks a legal framework for the recognition, registration, and regulated use of classic, antique, and vintage vehicles, further complicating the issue.