By Zivanai Dhewa

…As Gvt bans second hand car imports

People from all walks of life have applauded the Government for its decision, saying this will create employment, improve the lives of people and reduce significantly on the import bill, as Government stands firm on its decision to ban the importation of second hand cars that are over 10 years old.

Players in the local Motor industry have also welcomed the ban, as it will help revamp local car manufacturers.

The Harare Post managed to talk to one of the managers from Willowvale Motor Industry, who preferred to remain anonymous because  he is not authorized to speak on behalf of the company.

“This is very significant and long overdue if we are going to attain our Vision2030; it starts with promoting our own brand.  

“Willowvale Motor Industry has been in existence since 1967, but has downsized over and over again due to the unfair competition presented by the second hand car imports.

“What Government has done is to be applauded as it will improve their lives in line with an Upper Middle Income Economy by 2030,” said the source.

Economist Misheck Muzanenhamo, highlighted on the downstream industry such as Chloride Zimbabwe, saying “other downstream industries such as Chloride will have a ready market for their produce, the car batteries will be in high demand, depending on the number of cars produced per day.”

Meanwhile Government has directed that Ministries buy cars and buses that are locally manufactured to promote the Buy-Zimbabwe products.

In addition climate and environmental expects have applauded the move saying that it was Ozone friendly, while they expressed concern over cars that are 10years old and more, saying they contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.