In a groundbreaking decision, Ethiopia is set to enforce a ban on the importation of fossil fuel-powered cars, signaling a significant shift towards sustainable and green mobility. Cars failing the test will be considered unfit for the road and promptly removed.
Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime, emphasizing Ethiopia’s early embrace of electric vehicles (EVs), revealed a high-priority plan to establish a comprehensive EV charging infrastructure across the country. To further incentivize the transition, the government had previously implemented exemptions for value-added tax (VAT), excise tax, and surtaxes on electric cars in 2022, showcasing its commitment to the green policy.
Staggering import figures
The motivation behind this bold move stems from the alarming statistics: in 2023, Ethiopia spent a staggering €6 billion ($7.6 billion) on petrol and diesel imports, coupled with pollution levels in city centers reaching unprecedented highs due to traditional internal combustion vehicles. Following this, the Minister contends that an immediate ban on the importation of non-electric vehicles, both old and new, is the only viable solution to curb these issues.
Ethiopia spent a staggering €6 billion ($7.6 billion) on petrol and diesel imports in 2023
Many Ethiopians view this government initiative as part of the broader green agenda outlined in the parliament-approved Ten Years Development Plan (2021-2030). The plan ambitiously targets the introduction of at least 152,800 electric vehicles into the country by 2030. Currently, Ethiopia boasts approximately 7,200 EVs out of the 1.2 million vehicles traversing its roads.
Uncertainties on implementation
However, uncertainties surround the implementation of the prohibition policy. The timeline for its commencement remains unclear, leaving questions about its potential impact on fossil-powered vehicles already in transit from overseas. Another pressing concern is the affordability of EVs, considering the majority of Ethiopians may face challenges in purchasing them.
The discussion also delves into the practicality of EVs for a small percentage of the population with the financial means to afford them. As Ethiopia takes this bold step towards a greener future, the tech world watches closely for the implications and challenges that may arise.
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