Associations join forces

Two organisations which represent different sectors of the automotive sector in New Zealand have signed an historic agreement to work more closely together. The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) and Motor Industry Association (MIA) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU). In the past, the two organisations – with VIA representing the used import sector and MIA being the association for the new vehicle sector – were often on opposing sides when it came to legislation that affected the industry, but in recent times they have worked more closely on certain issues. Now – with the MoU being signed – the MIA and VIA have officially recorded the agreement reached on the working relationship between the two. Key points of agreement In this landmark step for the industry, VIA and the MIA have agreed to: collaborate on areas of mutual interest, providing a united voice for the vehicle importing industry; work to a “no surprises” policy, so that policy decisions, announcements and action on contentious issues are communicated in advance; include other motor industry associations in negotiations of shared import when appropriate. Commercial boundaries intact The MoU also pledges that both associations will work to identify the issues on which they have different policies or positions. Both the MIA and VIA retain the right (and the responsibility) to advocate independently for their membership in these matters. “While we fully intend to maintain clear commercial boundaries, it makes sense to work together to ensure that decisions affecting the whole industry are timely, efficient and thoroughly informed,” commented David Crawford, CEO of MIA. “This formal agreement is born out of our recent conversations on shared topical issues – such as intelligent transport systems, autonomous vehicles and recall protocols,” said David Vinsen, CEO of VIA. “There are also areas where our Government stakeholders benefit from a combined view of our needs as a sector. These include port operations, ACC vehicle risk ratings and the development of standards for vehicles and infrastructure." Costs and future scope Both VIA and the MIA have agreed that any costs incurred while working together should “lie where they fall’’, with each association responsible for its own costs. If a joint initiative were likely to require significant investment, financing would be agreed and apportion in advance.