Tuesday, December 16, 2008

2009 Bucharest int'l motor show canceled for auto industry crisis

BUCHAREST, Dec. 15 (Chinese media) -- Romanian carmakers and importers decided Monday to cancel the 2009 Bucharest International Motor Show (SIAB), following the sharp decline of the global and local auto industry, the Automotive Manufacturers and Importers Association (APIA) said in a statement.

"Romania's auto industry is dealing with a very sensitive situation, due to international difficulties and falling demand on the local market on the backdrop of recent massive imports of used cars," APIA said, stressing that "the outlook for 2009 is less than positive."

Some 200 carmakers that showcased 500 brands attended last year's edition of SIAB, the biggest motor show in central and eastern Europe.

The event is organized by AMC (Auto Moto Cycle) APIA Expo and France's AMC Promotion, organizer of the prestigious Paris Motor Show.

The Romanian car industry took a severe hit over the past months, while French Renault's local unit Dacia had to halt production thrice so far on falling demand.

Job losses and activity shutdown for car parts suppliers are further effects of the economic crisis in the auto industry, reported the local Mediafax news agency.

Early December, the Romanian government said it will triple a registration tax on used cars to boost new car sales and aid the local auto industry.

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