New law forbidding the sale of used gear Japan


There is a new law in Japan forbidding the sale of electonics that are more than 5 years old. I think that this coul have major ramifications as well as present the opportunity to buy tons of used gear in japan on the cheap. Check out the following link:
http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/22/japan-bans-old-electronics-as-of-april-1/
audioobsessed
Isn't this law a response to pollution from discarded electronics; mostly dumped personal computers. Isn't there pending legislation in the EU regarding this? There's alot of toxic material in that stuff! I suppose the same can be said of hi-fi equipment!

But I think a ban on selling would only increase illegal dumping!
sugerbrie, cool factoid about the japanese thinking the owners spirit resides in their posessions. I'm not sure about most stuff but when it comes to things like instruments (i have a good case of guitar acquisition ...GAS...to go along with liking audio gear)i think they may be on to somethig. Old pieces just have a vibe that the new ones don't
The Japanese don't seem to mind those "spirits" when it comes to vintage MacIntosh, Marantz, Western Electric, and JBL equipment.

A double standard?
I am sure there are opportunists in Japan who like to get cool used stuff cheap from people who are afraid of the spirits.

They have no problems selling the valuable used stuff like the pianos to Americans.

Even if they don't believe in spirits, it is probably the original cultural root cause of them wanting to buy only new goods. You do it simply because everyone else does it.
You beat me to the punch, Theduke!

Throw in Tannoy, as well as vintage motorcycles, guitars, and even used sneakers and Levi jeans from the gool ol' US of A...