Exporting second-hand cars has become a popular trend

In recent years, the export of second-hand new cars has become a popular trend, especially in low-income countries. With the high cost of brand-new cars, some countries prefer to import slightly-used vehicles from more developed countries that have stricter road safety and pollution regulations. As a result, many people are benefiting from this growing industry.

One country that has seen a significant increase in the import of used vehicles is Kenya. According to the latest data from the Kenya Revenue Authority, the number of second-hand cars imported into the country rose by 13.5% in the first quarter of 2021 compared to the same period last year. The trend is expected to continue for the rest of the year due to the availability of cheap used cars on the global market.

The market for second-hand new cars is predicted to grow in the coming years, with many countries seeing it as a viable option for their citizens. The African Union, for example, has set a plan to have at least 50% of its cars on the road to be electric by 2040. This ambitious plan is aimed at reducing the continent's carbon footprint, which is currently among the lowest in the world. However, the high cost of new electric cars means that many countries may have to rely on importing second-hand electric cars from more developed countries.

While the trend is seen as beneficial for low-income countries, it has also raised concerns about the safety of imported vehicles. Imported cars may not meet the technical specifications required by local governments, which could pose a risk to road safety. To address this issue, some countries have introduced regulations to ensure that all imported cars meet certain safety and emission standards.

In conclusion, the export of second-hand new cars is becoming a major industry in many countries, providing affordable vehicles for low-income citizens. While concerns about safety and environmental impact persist, the trend is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. As the global market for used vehicles continues to expand, more opportunities for businesses and consumers will emerge.