Entry of Cheap Cars Bought from Abroad in 2019 Continues in Armenia: Nersisyan

The entry of cheap cars purchased from abroad in 2019 is still ongoing in Armenia. This information was shared today during a meeting with journalists by the Deputy Chairman of the State Revenue Committee (SRC) of Armenia, Shushan Nersisyan.

According to the data presented by her, approximately 4,500 cars were registered for customs clearance based on preliminary declarations in January. However, as of January 31, only 3,800 of those had reached Armenia and been cleared with preferential customs duties. The rest were delayed for various reasons, resulting in their owners having to pay customs duties at elevated prices.

“As of February 13, 80-85 cars have been cleared during this month under the new rates. There are a number of vehicles that are already in Armenia but have not yet been cleared. We have information that there are also cars on the way that were supposed to come to Armenia but have not arrived for various reasons,” Nersisyan stated.

According to her, the amount of new customs payments has caused dissatisfaction among car importers. They believe that the Armenian government can rectify the situation with a single decision. However, the SRC official reminds that the preferential period granted to Armenia within the EAEU has ended as of January 1, 2020. “In order for such an opportunity to be granted to us, that decision must be made by the governments of all EAEU member countries,” she added.

In light of the new customs duties, Nersisyan noted that importing old cars is no longer beneficial. As a result, Armenian citizens who have gained some experience in car reselling are now trying to adapt to the new conditions.

According to the Deputy Chairman of the SRC, the customs clearance of cars older than 7 years with an engine displacement of 2,000 cc will cost about 15,000-16,000 euros equivalent in Armenian dram.