Officials report that in July 2013, a total of 12,368 private cars were imported into Israel as compared to 19,684 in June 2012, representing a 37% decline. According to Customs Authority officials’, there was an increase in car imports in May as consumers waited for an announced increase in value added tax. It appears the increase in VAT to 18% has taken its toll on car imports.

Regarding commercial vehicles, 485 were imported in June 2013 as compared to 541 in June 2012, a 10% decline.

It would appear the VAT increase had a mixed impact on other imports as refrigerator imports were down 14%, washing machine imports were up 52%, dryer imports increased 61% and dishwasher imports were up 29%.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)