February 14, 2002

Canadian cars going south in record numbers says trade association

Richmond Hill, Ontario - A record number of motor vehicles were exported from Canada to the United States last year by leasing and rental companies and independent dealers, says the North American Automobile Trade Association (NAATA). 200,074 Canadian exports went through the Registered Importer program in 2001, surpassing 200,000 units for the first time.

Canadian exports are way up from the mid-1990s, when 15,000 units was considered a good year for the industry, says Brian Osler, President of NAATA. He attributes several factors to the skyrocketing volume. "Many barriers to export have been eliminated. U.S. Customs has finally accepted that non-manufacturers can import Canadian vehicles without duties. Canadian market vehicles now have a permanent blanket safety and emissions approval in the United States. There is also a greater familiarity with Canadian vehicles in important American markets. Combined with the low Canadian dollar, the market is flourishing."

NAATA expects that economic and industry conditions will continue to encourage American dealers to source cars in Canada. Impending regulatory changes will also make it less expensive for Canadian remarketers to go through the importation process across the border.

Exports For Resale

Year	Exports For Resale
2001	200,074
2000	181,432
1999	151,842
1998	76,092
1997	23,745
1996	16,766
1995	14,052
1994	15,840

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