MOCI Prevents Export of New Vehicles Registered for Less Than One Year

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) has issued Circular No. (3) of 2025, requiring all car dealerships to refrain from exporting new vehicles that have been registered for less than one year.

The circular exempts authorised car agents and vehicles intended for personal use by individuals.

The measure is designed to protect consumers, while maintaining the availability of new vehicles in the local market.

It seeks to preserve a fair balance between supply and demand, prevent unjustified price increases, and avoid practices that may mislead consumers.

The circular also shields commercial establishments from penalties under the Consumer Protection Law for practices such as withholding goods or removing them from local market through export.

The Law No. (8) of 2008 on Consumer Protection and its executive regulations, issued under Ministerial Decision No. (68) of 2012, define suppliers’ obligations and enforcement mechanisms.

Article 10 prohibits suppliers from withholding goods, refusing to sell them to manipulate market prices, imposing purchase conditions, or charging more than the publicly announced price.

Article 14 forbids creating false or misleading impressions for consumers, including providing inaccurate information about product details (the country of origin).

The circular takes effect from the date of issuance, and the ministry urges all car dealerships to comply with the circular to avoid violations and legal action.

The MOCI will take strict action against any negligence or failure to comply with Law No. (8) of 2008 and its executive regulations, and will intensify inspection campaigns to ensure full adherence.