The government reaffirmed Wednesday that it will tighten import regulations for 50cc scooters starting this year.
Transport Bureau (DSAT) Director Wong Wan said that for scooters that are manufactured to carry one person only, they must be classified as such when they are imported into Macau.
He added that for scooters manufactured to carry two people, they have to be evaluated by officials before they can be classified as a two-seater.
Wong made the remarks at the bureau on the sidelines of a meeting between Urban Planning Council (CPU) members and government officials. He said the change was due to environmental and safety reasons, adding his bureau had been aware of citizens’ complaints that the engines of one-seat scooters are not powerful to carry two people.
Wong also mentioned that scooters designed to carry one person tend to generate more noxious gas when two people are on them, which is harmful to the environment. Considering these factors, the bureau decided to tighten the import of scooters.
“If you want to have your scooter categorised as a two-seater, you must show us proof of why it is safe to be classified as such, especially if they are made to seat one by the manufacturer,” he said. “This is the standard we use.”
However, Wong conceded that the bureau has neglected informing the public about the change in the regulations. “We owe the public an explanation,” he said. “I have to admit that we need to be more transparent regarding such information… we hope the public realise that we are making this change for their safety.”
The new regulations took effect earlier this year. However, the public only found out about recently. (macaunews/macaupost)
