New amendments make it tougher to take advantage of car import facilities for those with disabilities

Changing up the system for car imports for people with disabilities: The cabinet yesterday approved a draft decision put forward by the prime minister to amend the executive regulations of the law that governs the rights of people with disabilities, changing up the vehicle import system for those with disabilities, according to a cabinet statement.

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ICYMI: This marks the latest step in a wider drive to close a loophole that some have used to import cars without paying the necessary fees.

A NEW SYSTEM-

More paperwork: Individuals with disabilities interested in obtaining a vehicle without customs or VAT will need to obtain a disability proof card and integrated services card from the Social Solidarity Ministry, in coordination with the Health Ministry. They will also need a medical report from a Health Ministry-approved provider showing that they are capable of driving or being driven by another person.

New applicants only: All persons applying for the exemptions will need to prove they have not claimed an exemption in the previous five years and must have had access to a bank account with the Nasser Social Bank or other bank approved by the Central Bank of Egypt for a year prior to their application. Additionally, no powers of attorney will be accepted for managing the vehicle.

Plus, restrictions on the vehicle itself: The vehicle cannot be imported from a freezone. The amendments also introduce restrictions on the engine capacity of the vehicle, prohibiting the importation of vehicles with more than 1.2k cc for cars powered by petrol, diesel, or hybrid engines and 200 kw for electric vehicles. Vehicles with turbocharged engines are also prohibited.

Closing the loophole: If the car is found to have been sold or handed over to someone other than the person who initially claimed the customs exemption the relevant fees will apply.

CABINET ALSO APPROVED-

#1- The cabinet approved a draft presidential decree amending the executive regulations governing private and national universities, splitting the council governing the universities into two — with one governing private and one governing national universities. The councils will be responsible for assuring and developing the quality of education at their respective universities, including via annual performance reports. The higher education minister is now tasked with appointing the heads of the two councils, which will serve renewable two year terms.

#2- The cabinet approved the formatting of condition booklets and business contracts prepared by the Finance Ministry. This follows President Abdel Fattah El Sisi’s directive to unify the formulation of contracts made internally within the government or with outside parties.