Israel's Tax Authority reported that 23,018 private cars were imported to Israel in May 2013, compared to 18,180 in May 2012, an increase of 26.6%.
Import of commercial vehicles in May 2013 totaled 634 compared to 375 in May 2012, up 69%.
In a press release the Tax Authority noted that the relatively sharp increase in motor vehicle import during May was due to the expected increase in VAT to 18% in June 2013.
During January – May 2013 105,617 private vehicles were imported, up 19.3% compared to the corresponding period last year.
The Tax Authority noted however that during the January - March 2013, import was only up 8.4% compared to the corresponding period last year.
The statistical report also noted that during May 2013, import of refrigerators was down 34%. Import of video and DVD units was down 8.3%, washing machines up 12%, dryers up 3%, dish washers 3.7% and TV sets up 9%.
