Unmasking Undercover Auto Imports: The 'Gray' Side of Buying Chinese Cars in Kazakhstan
"The Ministry of Industry has warned about potential financial losses associated with 'grey' practices in importing vehicles from China"
The Deputy Minister of Industry and Infrastructure Development of Kazakhstan, Olzhas Saparbekov, has raised a red flag about the potential dangers of buying Chinese cars that might be part of clandestine import schemes. During a government briefing, he spoke about the rise of "gray" import tactics.
Journalists probed Saparbekov about these allegedly illicit methods, and he confirmed his knowledge of such schemes, citing social media posts from automotive experts discussing cars with manipulated VIN codes.
Saparbekov warned that such vehicles may not comply with technical regulations, compromising driver safety. However, he admitted that it's challenging to present precise data on the scale of these clandestine operations. He further added that any car not adhering to technical regulations would pose a risk to the car owner's safety and could leave the owner out of pocket.
According to reports from last year, up to one-third of used cars in Kazakhstan may feature tampered VIN numbers, a pattern that often comes to light too late.
It's essential to comprehend the purpose and functionality of VIN numbers (Vehicle Identification Numbers). This unique identifier remains constant throughout a vehicle's lifespan, tracing its history and helping to accurately identify the car. Unlike the registration number, the VIN number does not change, as it is assigned at the assembly line and etched onto the car's body.
In October 2024, it was reported that 17 individuals were apprehended in Almaty for allegedly illegal car registrations. Their scheme involved altering VIN numbers, and law enforcement uncovered an underground workshop that housed over 150 vehicles with fraudulent registration paperwork.
In September of the same year, a buyer in Aktau who spent 9.2 million tenge on a Toyota Camry with an altered VIN number successfully recovered his funds due to protected rights.
Dubious import schemes are a persistent problem, especially when it comes to Chinese cars in Kazakhstan, where Li Auto vehicles are exclusively available through private importers. This lack of official distributors may boost the chances of covert imports, potentially endangering consumers by hiding defects and illegal modifications, leading to both safety hazards and legal complications. Moreover, the absence of official service centers for many brands might exacerbate these issues, making it difficult for consumers to obtain proper maintenance and support for their vehicles. Stay vigilant when making your car purchase decisions!
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- The Deputy Minister of Industry and Infrastructure Development, Olzhas Saparbekov, has expressed concerns about the potential risks associated with the clandestine import of Chinese cars, including vehicles with tampered Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) that may not comply with technical regulations.
- In an effort to combat suspicious import schemes, especially those involving Chinese automobiles, it might be beneficial for consumers in Kazakhstan to explore financing options within the regulated finance industry, ensuring they purchase vehicles from reliable sources and receive appropriate after-sales support.
