Tradies and small businesses will face higher costs and tighter supply when replacing their trucks as new emissions standards come into force, the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association warns.
From November 1, all heavy vehicle imports must meet Euro VI-c or an approved equivalent such as Japan 2016 at entry certification.
VIA chief executive Greig Epps says the rules will affect popular trucks used in trades and contracting, from nine to 12-tonne two-axle models through to 26-tonne 8x4s.
“They’re a core part of how the industry works. By cutting out a big chunk of available stock, we put these vehicles out of reach for many operators,” he says.
The new commercial-vehicle rules follow a broader trend of tightening regulations across the used vehicle sector.
Stricter emissions requirements, combined with other regulatory changes, are steadily shrinking eligible supply, the industry warns.
VIA analysis shows that changes in 2024 roughly halved the pool of used heavy trucks from Japan. Prices lifted by $12,000–$15,000 on smaller units and up to $30,000 on heavier models.
The shift to Euro VI-c/Japan 2016 in November 2025 is expected to push costs even higher — an extra $15,000–$20,000 for smaller trucks and $35,000–$40,000 for heavier units.
Dealers report prices are already up 30% in parts of the used market, with many buyers forced into higher-kilometre local stock as offshore supply tightens.
“We back cleaner air and the use of modern emissions tech. But the changes don’t create more low-emission trucks, they just make them less accessible to the people who need them,” Epps says.
“The risk is operators hold older, higher-emitting trucks longer.”
VIA is advising operators to:
- Plan ahead: lock in requirements and sourcing before the November rule takes effect.
- Budget with headroom: prepare for higher upfront capital costs.
- Work with experienced importers: identify compliant stock early and avoid surprises at entry.
The policy aligns New Zealand with Australia and other developed markets on noxious-emission standards for heavy vehicles.
