Warning Over Dummy Sales of Imported Goods

Asadollah Karami said in an interview with IRNA on this matter:
“We are witnessing a major problem known as dummy sales and the trading of delivery vouchers in the imported car market, where sales are carried out through misleading advertisements. Some companies and dealerships involved in car imports bring in only a limited number of vehicles, yet engage in dummy sales through vouchers.”

Based on the remarks of this official from the Union of Automobile Dealers and Showrooms, it can be said that car importers are creating obligations without it being clear whether they actually have the capacity to fulfill them. This situation may lead buyers—who pay substantial sums in the hope of receiving their vehicles within short timeframes—to face lengthy delays, changes in vehicle specifications, or even a failure to honor commitments.

Even if these commitments are eventually fulfilled, there remains the possibility of price changes for the vehicles delivered to customers. The US dollar has risen sharply since the beginning of the year and is likely to continue this trend in the coming months. As a result, the final cost of vehicles to be imported in the future will likely be higher than current prices. Vehicles sold today but imported later are therefore expected to face price increases.

Companies that sell vehicles without securing their actual supply effectively use buyers’ funds as a financing tool, transferring the risks associated with regulatory changes, customs delays, or foreign exchange restrictions to the end customer. Such practices may lead to an increase in legal disputes and expose consumers of these vehicles to serious difficulties.