One of the most vital roles of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) is to establish and maintain robust connections with government officials at all levels. This ongoing relationship-building is crucial for ensuring that the interests and concerns of vehicle importers are heard directly by those who shape the regulations and policies affecting our industry.
Every day, VIA engages with officials across a broad spectrum of government agencies. From the Ministry of Transport (MOT) and the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) to the Ministry for the Environment, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), and the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE), our reach is extensive. These interactions are not merely procedural but are strategic efforts to keep our industry's voice front and center in the minds of those who have the power to make decisions that impact vehicle importation and compliance processes in New Zealand.
A key aspect of our advocacy work involves securing face-to-face time with high-level decision-makers. Just yesterday, we had the opportunity to meet online with NZTA's Director of Land Transport, Brent Alderton, and later in-person with the Minister of Transport, Hon Simeon Brown. These meetings represent the pinnacle of our engagement strategy, allowing us to establish a direct line of communication between the industry's representatives and those at the highest levels of government.
Why are these high-level meetings so important? Because they allow us to bypass the filtering process that often occurs when messages are passed through multiple layers of bureaucracy. When we speak directly to the Director of Land Transport or the Minister of Transport, we ensure that the concerns and needs of our industry are conveyed clearly and accurately, without dilution or misinterpretation. This direct communication is essential for making sure that our voice is heard and considered in the decision-making process.
During these recent meetings, we focused on some of the most pressing issues facing vehicle importers today. Specifically, we discussed the challenges we are encountering with the Exhaust Emissions Rule and the Entry Certification process, as well as our concerns regarding the oversight of the compliance sector. These topics are not just points of discussion—they are pain points that, if not addressed, could have significant negative impacts on our industry.
It's important to acknowledge that a single meeting, no matter how high-level, does not instantly resolve these complex issues. However, gaining the support of influential figures like the Director of Land Transport and the Minister of Transport is a significant step forward. Their backing provides the necessary encouragement for officials throughout the government hierarchy to work collaboratively with industry representatives to find practical and effective solutions.
At VIA, we fully support the implementation of reasonable, evidence-based regulations that create a level playing field for all industry participants. We recognize the government's responsibility to crack down on non-compliance and to ensure that bad actors are held accountable. However, it's equally important that the rules we follow are clear, reasonable, and workable. There must be a shared understanding between government and industry about what constitutes serious non-compliance and how it should be addressed.
Our commitment to representing the interests of vehicle importers remains unwavering. We will continue to engage with government officials, advocate for fair and effective regulations, and work tirelessly to ensure that the voice of our industry is not only heard but respected in all corners of government.
The work we do at VIA is not just about addressing today's challenges but also about shaping the future of vehicle importation in New Zealand. We are your voice in government, and we will continue to speak loudly and clearly on your behalf.