Zimbabwe mulls banning importation of tyres

THE Government is considering banning the import of tyres that do not conform to the local climate and roads, an official said on Thursday.

The rising demand for tyres in Africa has led to stiff competition between tyre manufacturers worldwide seeking to satisfy the African markets.

In the past, European tyre manufacturers had a monopoly over the African markets.

Over the years, China and other Asian countries have gradually penetrated the African market as some companies prefer to import low-priced products.

Transport Communications and Infrastructural Development permanent secretary Mr Patson Mbiriri told a media briefing that the planned move was aimed at curbing carnage on the roads.

"We have already engaged the Ministry of Industry and Commerce regarding the importation of these tyres," he said.

"Certainly there is a cause for looking into that issue because we have so many tyres coming into the country that are not fit for our rough roads leading to many accidents," he added.

Mr Mbiriri said a team comprising experts from the two ministries would soon be set up to explore the possibility.

He said the move also sought to protect local tyre manufacturers who are on record as saying that cheap imports were hampering the recovery of the local industry.

The move was also in line with Government efforts to improve road safety, he said.

Burst tyres have emerged as the main cause of accidents that occurred on the country's roads, where many lives have been lost and limbs lost.