Car traders in the Kurdistan Region are calling on authorities to extend the deadline for importing 2024 model vehicles after shipping delays left thousands of cars outside the Region.
The Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Interior shortened the import period for 2024 models from November 1, 2026, to September 1, 2026.
Car trader Rebar Mohammed said customs officials had informed dealers that September would be the final month for importing 2024 vehicles.
Mohammed said he had purchased 50 cars from the United States. However, problems around the Strait of Hormuz have delayed shipments, with some vehicles taking more than three months to reach the Kurdistan Region.
He warned that traders could face major financial losses unless authorities reverse the decision or extend the deadline.
Kurdistan Region customs officials said the Ministry of Interior issued the decision to shorten the import period.
Jawad Mahmoud, who represents more than 200 car traders, said the US-Iran conflict and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz had created serious obstacles for vehicle imports.
He said shipping delays had also pushed transport costs sharply higher. Before the disruptions, importing a petrol or gas-powered car cost about $1,200. That figure has now increased to around $2,100.
Electric vehicle shipping costs have risen even more. Traders previously paid about $1,500 per vehicle. Current costs range from $3,500 to $5,000.
Mahmoud said more than 3,000 vehicles are now stuck in India, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Dubai because of delays and the shorter deadline.
Traders say many of these cars may not arrive before the import period ends.
They are urging the government to grant additional time, arguing that the delays resulted from regional conflict and shipping disruptions beyond their control.
Without an extension, dozens of dealers could face substantial losses on vehicles already purchased abroad during recent months.
