UNBS Takes Action Against Counterfeit Tyres to Enhance Safety and Economy

The Ugandan government, in its commitment to promoting safety, trade, and economic growth, has initiated a crackdown on counterfeit tyres. The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has implemented stringent guidelines to ensure the importation and sale of high-quality and safe tyres.

During a field inspection of tyres in Kampala, Ms Sarah Nantongo, a surveillance officer at UNBS, emphasized the importance of adhering to specific standards. She highlighted that a standard tyre must be free from deformities to withstand stress. Consumers are urged to check the shape, size, and overall condition of tyres before making a purchase.

Ms Nantongo also raised concerns about purchasing tyres from open shops that expose them to light. She advised dealers to regulate the light exposure in stores to prevent damage to the tyres.

In addition to the physical condition, UNBS underscores the significance of considering expiry dates when buying tyres. Tyres with expired dates can pose serious risks on the road, and customers should be aware of this crucial detail.

To aid technicians in proper fitting, standard tyres are required to bear direction arrows. This feature helps reduce the risk of accidents by ensuring correct mounting.

Furthermore, UNBS stresses the importance of tyre treads and proper storage to maintain their quality. Tread patterns play a vital role in road grip and safety. Tyres should be piled according to sizes during storage to avoid damage.

UNBS provides consumers with various general requirements to identify the quality of tyres. These include markings for section width, aspect ratio, tyre construct code, diameter code, size, identification number, ply material, maximum cold inflation, load index, and speed symbol. Tubeless tyres must be clearly indicated, and they should bear the manufacturer or brand name label.

Mr Denis Odur, another surveillance officer at UNBS, highlighted the receipt of numerous complaints about substandard tyres and urged the public to be vigilant. In response to these complaints, the UNBS team seized several substandard or fake tyres from the market in Kampala.

Mr Abdul Lubega, the vice chairperson at Nsangi Stage at the New Taxi Park, expressed concern over the influx of substandard tyres in the market. These tyres have alarmingly short lifespans, creating challenges for taxi operators and commuters. Unlike in the past when tyres could last almost a year, currently, they only work for about six months.

The government’s crackdown on counterfeit tyres is a significant step towards ensuring road safety and protecting consumers from potential risks associated with substandard products. By enforcing stringent guidelines, UNBS aims to foster a thriving trade environment and bolster the nation’s economy.