The Export Ban on Automotive Catalytic Converters Extended Again

The ban on the export of used ceramic waste from automotive catalytic converters in Armenia will be extended until the end of the year. The government has decided to prolong the existing ban for an additional six months.

The necessity of the ban is justified by the goal of enhancing the level of environmental protection in the republic, particularly to mitigate harmful emissions into the atmosphere during the operation of vehicles without neutralization systems, as well as to prevent the illegal circulation of catalytic converters.

Recall that the deadline for the ban established by the decision of December 15, 2022, ends on June 25, 2023. The new decision will be valid until December 25.

Since importing vehicles without a catalytic converter is prohibited in Armenia, the practice of removing catalytic converters from cars has become widespread. The reason for removing and selling the catalytic converter is the precious metals contained within it.

To address the issue, the government has not only imposed an export ban but has also prohibited technical inspections of vehicles without a catalytic converter starting January 1, 2024.