Used vehicle imports down 17%

The number of used vehicles imported in 2002 fell by 17% against 2001, according to Finance Ministry figures. The total number of second-hand vehicles brought into Poland last year was almost 268,000 of which the majority were passenger cars for private use, the remainder being commercial vehicles. The fall is partly due to the introduction last year of more stringent environmental protection measures and increased excise duty (up to 65%) on older vehicles. Nonetheless, according to experts, the market will still opt for used cars, thus sustaining demand, which suggests further growth in the sector. Still, they warn that any forecast of market developments in 2003 may prove inaccurate due to the possibility of unexpected changes in legislation. "Our market lacks stability and this year is unlikely to bring any," said one sector analyst. (Rzeczpospolita, p. B3) J.K.