Problems relating to Trade and Investment on Egypt

22. Environmental pollution and waste disposal
Issue	Issue details	Requests	Reference

(1) Abrupt and Ambiguous Introduction of Environmental Control System

- In 2010, GOE abruptly announced a partial introduction in Egypt of UNECE (Egypt and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa) Vehicle Regulations - 1958 Agreement, (namely, the items selectively adopted by EOS, "UNECE/EOS"), foreclosing entry into Egypt of non-conforming motorcars after a grace period of only half a year or so. Further step-by-step introduction anticipated, but motorcars not conforming to UNECE/EOS (EU specification) must be modified to make them compatible with it. It compels price increase and makes difficult introduction of new models. While the website of EOS quoted in the reference below gives the implementation schedule in stages of UNECE/EOS, no other details have yet been made public. Firms are at a loss how to cope with the new requirement.

- It is requested that GOE:
-- affords foreign funded enterprises (at least local distributors) opportunities to exchange dialogues in introducing new regulations,
-- provides sufficient and adequate explanation, and an ample grace period for all interested parties allowing manufacturers to make requisite preparation.

- UNECE Vehicle Regulations - 1958 Agreement, (as selectively adopted by EOS (The Egyptian Organization for Standardization and Quality), namely, UNECE/EOS

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