The three-member Investigative Commission established to examine issues related to defective Takata airbags has summoned its first witnesses. The first sessions are scheduled for April 3 and April 9, 2025. The Commission's mandate includes investigating the placement of such vehicles on the Cypriot market, imports from EU and third countries, and the handling of vehicle recalls.

According to OffsiteNews, on April 3, a Ministry of Transport official will testify before Commission President Michalakis Christodoulou and Commissioners Michalis Vorkas and Theodosios Chatzimichael. The official in question was responsible for a previous administrative investigation into gaps identified in the recall process.

The administrative review focused on a circular issued by the Road Transport Department (RTD) on March 21, 2017. The circular, issued after consultations with automobile representatives in Cyprus, excluded used vehicles from recall-related obligations. Specifically, it exempted dealers from the responsibility of informing buyers about recalls on used vehicles imported from third countries.

>>Cyprus Received 57 Warnings on Takata Airbags Between 2019 and 2024 – Authorities Took No Action<<

Also testifying on April 3 will be a representative from the Association of Motor and Electric Vehicle Importers (SEMIHO). The Association has voiced serious concerns about legislation passed by Parliament in December. The law mandates recall certificates for every vehicle registration, ownership transfer, and MOT inspection.

According to SEMIHO, the number of daily certificates required per car brand could reach the hundreds, which they believe will cause significant inconvenience to vehicle owners. Additionally, the strict deadlines set by the law are considered unfeasible.

On April 9, 2025, representatives of five car importing companies will present their positions to the Commission. Importers have raised concerns about the number of airbags they would be required to bring in from abroad. Their argument is that they cannot import the volume of airbags corresponding to the affected vehicles, as many vehicle owners refuse to come forward for recall procedures.

Nine or ten former Ministers of Transport (previously Communications), serving from 2004 onwards, are also expected to testify, including current Minister Alexis Vafeadis. Additionally, eight former Ministers of Commerce and Energy during the same period will give testimony regarding the guidance they provided during their terms in office.

In total, over 50 individuals are expected to appear before the Commission over the next three months—or longer, if an extension is granted.

On February 3, 2025, a decree was issued that immobilized 138 vehicles with defective Takata airbags and another 138 with serious brake problems immediately upon publication. In total, over 276 vehicles are subject to recall due to issues with airbags and brakes. Additionally, approximately 80,000 more vehicles may be recalled due to defective airbags.