Dimitri Khundadze, chairman of the parliamentary political group “People’s Power,” has criticized the government’s plan to ban the import of vehicles older than six years, calling the measure illogical and in need of reconsideration. He stated that his party is ready to participate in consultations on the issue.
Khundadze argued that the ban will neither modernize the car fleet nor improve environmental conditions. On the contrary, he said, older vehicles may remain in circulation longer, increasing wear and tear and worsening pollution. He also pointed out that the regulation does not apply to large trucks or special-purpose vehicles, which contribute significantly to environmental degradation.
According to Khundadze, the measure will create particular challenges in regional areas, where public transport is limited or nonexistent. He warned that middle- and low-income citizens will bear the brunt of the ban, and importers, who provide both revenue and jobs, will also be affected.
The government, led by Georgian Dream, plans to implement the ban on M1 category vehicles older than six years starting April 1, prohibiting initial or temporary registration. Exceptions apply to vehicles already in transit or customs. The auto industry and advocacy groups have protested the decision, and a petition calling for its cancellation is gathering signatures.
