The Motor Industry Association is praising changes to the Clean Car Importer Standards.

The Government is softening back targets for reducing vehicle emissions, which were being enforced by fining importers of 'dirty' cars.

The Association says the targets will still be tough - but easier than they were.

Motor Industry Association Chief Executive Aimee Whiley says it will make it easier for importers to manage their costs.

"We get our mix of zero-emissions vehicles, and we can offset the credits we earn from those to gain some of the debit penalties."

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