Unwavering efforts aim to eliminate illicit auto parts trade
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Members of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (Miwa), a proud affiliate of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, strongly support the Tyres, Equipment, Parts Association (Tepa) and other prominent stakeholders in their mission to eradicate the illicit trade in automotive parts in South Africa. This effort is channelled through establishing a Blow the Whistle Compliance Forum.
Dewald Ranft, the national chairperson of Miwa, highlights that this issue affects nearly every sector of the economy. “The illicit trade in automotive components has far-reaching consequences, primarily impacting road safety and leading to significant revenue losses for both the government and our compliant member businesses,” he emphasises.
Of particular concern is the illegal trade in safety-critical components such as brakes, tyres and bearings, endangering South African motorists. Ranft notes that, in partnership with Right to Repair South Africa, a not-for-profit company established to promote compliance and safeguard consumer interests, Miwa is also focusing on educating consumers. The goal is to ensure that when original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are not used, consumers opt for parts of similar quality, accompanied by a comparable warranty.
Miwa shares Tepa’s apprehensions about consumer tendencies to seek lower-cost options as the economy tightens further. Ranft points out that one of the significant advantages of the new Guidelines to Competition in the South African automotive aftermarket, implemented on July 1, 2021, is that consumers now have the freedom to shop competitively without compromising quality.
Ranft underscores the need to work towards a more compliant trading environment and, like Tepa, encourages shared responsibility within their sector.
“As we approach the holiday season, which traditionally witnesses an unacceptably high rate of road fatalities, it’s crucial for consumers to conduct safety checks on their vehicles. Be especially vigilant about where you source your parts and servicing. We also appeal to all consumers: if you become aware of any malpractices, report them to the Tepa hotline for investigation and let the media expose the wrongdoers. Road safety is a collective responsibility, and we can contribute to making our roads safer and supporting legitimate businesses to prosper and expand.”
Source: Cathy Findley PR
