Illegal car parts endangering motorists and commuters a countrywide problem

The fraudulent automotive parts industry is thriving in South Africa, but you might be able to help.

According to industry stakeholders, thousands of operators at the lower end of the supply chain are fitting poor quality and not-fit-for-purpose parts that do not meet regulatory standards.

These are often obtained fraudulently or through compromised channels where oversight is at a minimum, or not done at all.

The introduction of a South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA) hotline has begun to curb the issue, but it needs greater reach to achiever proper efficacy in stamping out the illegal practice.

“Although it is impossible to quantify, there is a significant cost to the sector in loss of revenue from the growing influx of the sub-par parts creeping into the local market,” said Tyre Equipment Parts Association (TEPA) national director, Vishal Premlall.

South African Tyre Manufacturing Conference (SATMC) chairperson, Lubin Ozoux, echoed the concern, adding there were serious health and safety issues as well.

“The problem with these parts is that there is very little, if any, traceability, no technical support and no recourse for the consumer. The SATMC is working with law enforcement agencies to identify and investigate cases of illicit tyre trade, and we are advocating for stronger measures to prevent this trade from happening in the first place,” he said.

“There are rising incidents of misdeclaration of tyre consignments and rerouting of imports through neighbouring countries to avoid tyre duties, environment levies and permits.”

Stakeholders cited compliance enforcement as the key to breaking the illegal supply chains, but admitted it would not be possible without industrywide buy-in, including from consumers.

In the 18 months since the SAPRA hotline has been active, more than 100 fraudulent operators have been successfully investigated and sanctioned, but that is just the first step.

“TEPA is advocating for the formation of a policing compliance forum for illicit parts, which can have representation from all role players. We believe this will send a strong message to these traders who are not only endangering consumer’s lives but also impacting the profitability of our sector,” said Premlall.

If you have any information on illegal operations or non-regulated parts, call the whistle blower hotline at 011 886 6300.

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