Cabinet of Ministers imposes ban on export of used catalytic converters

The Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic has approved a temporary six-month ban on the export of used automotive catalytic converters, as well as slag, ash and precious metal residues contained therein.

The relevant decree was signed by the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Adylbek Kasymaliyev.

As noted, the decision was made in order to protect the life and health of citizens, as well as to protect the environment, flora and fauna. The authorities hope that the measure will reduce the level of atmospheric pollution from car exhaust.

The catalytic converter is considered one of the most expensive components of a car's exhaust system. Its cost can reach up to 13 per cent of the total price of the vehicle. Against the backdrop of rising prices for the precious metals it contains, there have been cases of voluntary dismantling and theft of catalytic converters for subsequent resale.

The temporary ban is aimed at curbing illegal trafficking and reducing the incentive to remove this component from vehicles. After six months, the government will assess the effectiveness of the measure and decide on its further application.