Japanese used cars rejected

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: The Jayapura Port administrator has prevented a Panama-flagged ship from unloading 400 used cars imported from Japan by a local businessman because his import license has expired.

The Golden Coast has been in the waters near the port since last Tuesday but has not been allowed to dock because the import license owned by Budi Hardjo of PT Siola has expired, officials said.

The head of the port, Solaiman Wairo, said on Thursday the decision was made after his office received reports from the provincial trade and industry agency that the import license had expired on June 17.

"This ban is effective until Budi Hardjo completes the necessary documents for his business," Solaiman said.

The head of the provincial trade and industry agency, Zubeir D. Husein, confirmed the incident.

Budi Hardjo reportedly had a license to import used cars from Japan to be sold in Irian Jaya and Aceh.

"But the license is overdue and he has to renew his license with the governor, and does not necessarily have to go to the trade and industry ministry in Jakarta," Zubeir said.

The cars, most of which are five years old, were expected to be sold at between Rp 60 million and Rp 150 million in Jayapura.(35/emf)