Zimbabwe gov't mulls import ban on unqualified tires

HARARE, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -- The Zimbabwe government has set up a technical committee to explore the proposal to ban imported tires that do not conform to the local climate and roads.

Transport Communication and Infrastructure Development Permanent Secretary Patson Mbiriri said the team consisted of officials from various ministries, New Ziana reported on Thursday.

"We have put in place a technical team which is working on the proposal with various Ministries. The ban is necessary as road accidents caused by these unsuitable tires continue to rise," Mbiriri said.

"Imported tires are meant for cold weather conditions not what we experience in Africa and the manufacturers out there don't consider that. Local manufacturers can supply the market with appropriate tires," he added.

Burst tires have emerged as the main cause of accidents on Zimbabwe's roads. The government announced late last year that it was considering banning the importation of low quality tires.

The rising demand for tires in Africa has led to stiff competition among tire manufacturers worldwide seeking to satisfy the African markets.

Source: Xinhua