Recently appointed Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku has postponed a ban on the import of used cars with a “Euro 4” emission standard produced before 2009 until the end of the year.
In October 2018, the Rama government passed Council of Ministers Decision (VKM), which would ban the import of used cars with a “Euro 4” emission standard starting at March 1, only allowing the import of cars with a “Euro 5” emission standard or higher. This is in line with EU standards.
The measure was taken to combat air pollution in Albania. Tirana is one of the most polluted cites in the world, according to the Numbeo Pollution Index. Prime Minister Edi Rama had touted the decision on his own Facebook account, stating:
“Good Morning. With this informative video about the decision to ban the import of cars older than 10 years to secure a cleaner air and better health of our children and every citizen, I wish you a great day.”
Minister Balluku did not provide any argument for postponing. Many Albanians drive used cars, and postponing the potentially unpopular decision, which certainly would drive up prices, until after the local elections may be an attempt to avoid criticism.
