The Seychelles government is set to implement new regulations for the importation of vehicles, focusing on safety standards and consumer protection, with an expected enforcement date before January 2025. These regulations aim to establish minimum safety requirements for motor vehicle dealers importing vehicles into Seychelles, ensuring roadworthiness and passenger safety.
Strengthening Safety Standards
The principal secretary for Trade, Francis Lebon, emphasized the importance of the new regulations in guaranteeing that all imported vehicles meet minimum safety standards to protect passengers and drivers. The focus on safety underscores the government's commitment to ensuring that vehicles on Seychelles' roads adhere to essential safety protocols.
Promoting Competition and Consumer Rights
In addition to safety standards, the new regulations will also aim to enhance competition within the market and safeguard consumer interests. Dealers will be required to meet specific standards to operate in Seychelles, including providing after-sales services and issuing warranties of at least three years or 50,000 km on each vehicle sold. These measures are designed to ensure that consumers receive the best possible deals and services when purchasing vehicles.
Emphasis on Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
The regulations will also address the importation of hybrid and electric vehicles, requiring dealers to have certified technicians capable of repairing these specialized vehicles. This ensures that vehicle owners will have access to qualified professionals who can maintain and repair their hybrid and electric vehicles, promoting safety and reliability. Dealers will also need to ensure the availability of spare parts for these vehicles, which is crucial for their long-term functionality and owner satisfaction. Furthermore, the regulations mandate proper storage and disposal solutions for the lithium batteries used in hybrid and electric vehicles. This measure is essential to address environmental concerns and ensure that these batteries are handled in an environmentally responsible manner, preventing potential hazards.
Policy Changes for Returning Graduates and Residents
Bertrand Loze, the director for Policy and Strategy in the Ministry of Transport, highlighted significant policy changes for returning graduates and residents with left-hand drive vehicles. They will now be allowed to purchase new right-hand drive vehicles or vehicles no older than three years, facilitating their return to Seychelles with compliant vehicles. This policy adjustment aims to ease the transition for returning residents, ensuring they can integrate smoothly with vehicles that meet local regulations. It also encourages the adoption of newer, safer, and more efficient vehicles, contributing to road safety and environmental goals. These changes reflect the government's commitment to supporting its citizens while maintaining high standards for vehicle safety and environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
The upcoming regulations in Seychelles represent a significant step towards enhancing safety standards, promoting fair competition, and protecting consumer rights in the automotive industry. By setting stringent safety requirements, ensuring consumer protection, and accommodating returning residents and graduates, Seychelles is taking proactive measures to create a safer and more consumer-friendly environment for vehicle imports and sales in the country.
