Imports of completely-built-up (CBU) cars to Vietnam will most likely take a quantum leap in months to come as authorities in some Asian and European countries now issue Vehicle Type Approval (VTA) certificates for car importers in Vietnam.

Cars are on display at an exhibition. Imports of completely-built-up (CBU) cars to Vietnam will most likely soar in the coming months 

Car imports to Vietnam have almost ground to a halt since early this year as the Vietnamese Government’s Decree 116 sets out stringent quality, technical safety and environmental protection requirements for imported cars.

The decree forces car importers in Vietnam to obtain VTA certificates from authorities in exporting countries, but such certification is new to them. But authorities in some countries have come to terms with the VTA requirement.

Thailand officially began issuing VTA certificates in March. Since then, Honda Vietnam has imported a large number of cars from Thailand. Following in Honda’s footsteps, General Motors Vietnam has also imported seven-seat Trailblazer SUVs, which have been available on the market since early this month.

Ford Vietnam told the Daily that the type of VTA certificate presented by the firm has been endorsed but the automaker would have to wait a few months to import Ranger and Everest cars as Ford facilities in Thailand need time to produce enough cars for the company.

A source from Toyota Vietnam said that despite having obtained VTA certificates from Thailand and Indonesia, the firm would need about two or three months to have its orders fulfilled.

Therefore, CBU auto imports from the two Southeast Asian nations will surge in the months to come.

Thailand and Indonesia were the two largest CBU exporters to Vietnam last year, with roughly 47,000 units. Their models such as multi-purpose and sport-utility vehicles with local content of over 40% could enjoy zero import tariffs in Vietnam.

Meanwhile, some firms that import autos from Germany told the Daily that they had already had the likes of VTA certificates but they had not yet been approved by Vietnamese authorities.

Some importers of autos from Germany said they have finally received official VTA approval from the Ministry of Industry and Trade. They said their vehicle prices would not change much.

SGT