GSA defends decision to allow importation of vehicles up to 15 years old

The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has defended its policy allowing the importation of used vehicles up to 15 years old, citing stakeholder feedback and the need to strike a balance between standards enforcement and economic realities. Kofi Yeboah Debrah, the Authority's Acting Head of Public Relations, clarified that the initial plan was to restrict imports of vehicles older than 10 years.

However, extensive consultations with stakeholders in vehicle importation, assembly, and the used-car trade led to the decision to increase the threshold to 15 years. Debrah emphasized that the objective is consumer protection while considering the potential impact on businesses and individuals. He acknowledged that the move from 10 years to 15 years should not be seen as weakening standards but as a responsive measure to public concerns.

The GSA's approach is intended to provide stakeholders time to adjust, with the policy set to take effect from October 1. Imported vehicles will also need a certificate of conformity. The Authority's broader goal is to enhance vehicle standards and consumer protection, implementing the policy gradually while maintaining ongoing engagement with stakeholders.