Japanese used vehicles cannot be exported to Fiji unless approved by the Japan Export Vehicle Inspection Centre (JEVIC).

This follows an agreement by Land Transport Authority and JEVIC that requires every vehicle to be appraised before it is certified for export to Fiji, according to LTA acting chief executive officer, Aptinko Vaurasi.

Mr Vaurasi said that JEVIC was a world-wide recognised vehicle appraisal business with extensive experience in determining vehicle worthiness.

“It has already played a major role in ensuring all Japanese used cars are assessed and approved for registration when allowed into Fiji,” Mr Vaurasi said.

Since August 15, when the agreement between JEVIC and LTA came into place, 5,973 vehicles have been imported.

Fifteen vehicles were rejected by JEVIC in Japan because they did not comply with LTA requirements.

The JEVIC appraisal is detailed with research including proper documentation of ownership, structural and environmental integrity, and includes biosecurity contamination tests (radiation).

“These appraisals comply with LTA requirements and the system is working.

“The 15 rejected vehicles would now be in Fiji and a possible danger on the roads without the restrictions imposed by JEVIC,” said Mr Vaurasi.

“For those customers purchasing a used Japanese vehicle in Japan, they can purchase a pre-shipment vehicle search with JEVIC assessment information available.”

According to Mr Vaurasi, LTA has noticed a significant decrease in customer complaints regarding vehicle issues after the implementation of JEVIC appraisals.

Source: Land Transport Authority

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