The car importers’ association, Semio, said on Friday that it would not accept responsibility for recalls of vehicles imported from third countries without European approval, ahead of a forthcoming decree regulating the issue.

Semio responded to recent government and parliamentary initiatives aimed at holding official importers and distributors liable for all recalls, including those of second-hand vehicles imported without European approval. The association stressed that its members would not assume responsibility for recalls that do not fall under their remit.

The only viable solution, Semio argued, was to adopt and implement an EU regulation that clearly defines liability. The association also stated that it reserved its legal rights should any “unacceptable intentions” be enforced.

Decrees ordering the recall of cars fitted with faulty airbags will be made on Monday, Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades said on Thursday.

Speaking to the Cyprus Mail, he said he expected the legal service to complete its study of the decrees by the close of business on Friday, and that he would go ahead with the issuing of decrees regarding recalls on Monday.