The lack of consensus within the auto industry on the automotive directive appears to be showing no signs of improvement. This is the primary reason cited by auto industry insiders who spoke to Al Shorouk as to why they doubt statements by House Industry Committee Chair Ahmed Samir that the law will pass by November. The divisions are too great, with some 10 key points of legislation still being contested, said Hassan Moustafa, head of the automotive division of the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce. Clauses on taxation and benefits down the value chain remain in heavy dispute, said the spokesperson for the Egyptian Automotive Manufacturing Association, Khaled Saad. The Trade and Industry Ministry had formed a committee back in June to break the deadlock. Alaa Elsaba, head of Elsaba Automotive, also believes that the bill likely awaits the completion of a report by a German consultancy hired by the ministry as an adviser.

Tags: