EU Bans Export of Unsafe Used Cars, Raising Stakes for Uganda’s Vehicle Market

KAMPALA — The European Parliament has approved landmark legislation that will ban the export of unsafe and highly polluting used vehicles from the European Union, a move expected to reshape the second-hand car market in Uganda and across Africa, where imported used vehicles dominate the roads.

The legislation, adopted by 437 votes, requires EU member states to stop exports of vehicles that fail roadworthiness tests, are irreparably damaged or no longer meet European safety and emissions standards. The rules, which cover a vehicle’s entire lifecycle, must be implemented within five years, although some EU countries are expected to act sooner.

For Uganda, where the overwhelming majority of vehicles are imported second-hand, the reforms could improve road safety and air quality but may also push up the cost of importing cars as lower-quality vehicles disappear from the European market.