Japan to ban export of used cars to Russia

The Japanese government plans to ban the export of used cars to Russia as part of additional economic sanctions against Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.

This was reported by Kyodo, citing sources in the Japanese government, Ukrinform reports.

Restrictions on the export of used Japanese cars, which are in great demand among Russians, aim to strengthen the effectiveness of the embargo against Moscow and synchronize Japan's sanctions policy with the punitive measures of Europe and the United States.

In addition to the ban on the supply of luxury cars worth more than $43,000 (6 million yen) to Russia, which has been in effect since April last year, Japan's new sanctions will apply to cars with all types of engines (gasoline and diesel) exceeding 1900 cubic centimeters, as well as electric and hybrid vehicles.

Japan's exports to Russia in 2022 decreased by 30% compared to the previous year and amounted to only about $4.4 million (603.9 billion yen). More than half of this amount, 305.6 billion yen, is accounted for by passenger cars, most of which are used cars.

The United States and the European Union expanded their bans on car exports to Russia after the May summit of the Group of Seven leaders in Hiroshima, where they agreed to take measures to restrict exports to Russia of all goods that could contribute to the continuation of its aggression against Ukraine.

Author - Serhii Kolomiets, 19/07/2023