The Government of Israel will no longer grant permission for the importation of automobiles as gifts for residents of Israel, Arthur Lourie, consul general in New York, announced today. The government’s action was taken after it was learned that many of the gift shipments were not bona fide transactions and violated import and currency regulations to the detriment to the state’s economy.
“Tourists who wish to use their cars during their trips in Israel may do so by securing a carnet de passage from the American Automobile Association prior to their departure for Israel or by posting a bond with Israel customs officials upon their arrival,” Mr. Lourie said. “The bond will be returned when they take the car out of the country.” Tourists are forbidden to sell or leave their cars in Israel unless they secure an import license in advance of arrival.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
