Tighter Rules on Second-Hand Car Imports Take Effect in Ukraine on June 8.

Ukraine Launches New Customs Checks for Used Vehicle Declarations

According to Novyny.live: Starting June 8, 2023, the State Customs Service of Ukraine will begin a new phase of a pilot program aimed at inspecting customs declarations for used cars brought into the country from abroad. This initiative will run through December 31, 2026, and is designed to tighten oversight on vehicles entering under preferential treatment regimes. Approximately half of all imported second-hand cars will be subject to these checks.

Recent Incidents and Enforcement Actions

Several customs-related violations have also been reported recently:

• In the Lviv region, customs officers stopped a driver attempting to illegally bring in Apple devices worth around 1.5 million Ukrainian hryvnias. The incident occurred at the 'Shehyni—Medyka' border checkpoint.
• In the Odesa region, an official from the 'Chornomorsk' customs post was exposed on suspicion of systematic bribery.

These actions highlight the Ukrainian customs authorities' ongoing efforts to improve import control and prevent illegal activities. The introduction of new declaration checks for used cars represents a significant step in this direction.

This expanded verification process is part of a broader state strategy to combat smuggling and ensure proper oversight of imports. The new phase of the pilot is expected to reduce customs violations and increase transparency in the sector. Given the current relevance of the issue, such initiatives may also reshape Ukraine's used-car market by raising accountability among importers.