ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan is intensifying efforts to modernize the country’s auto sector and promote environmentally friendly transportation. In a key development, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan, chaired a crucial meeting with the Car Dealers Importers Association in Islamabad to discuss the forthcoming Auto Policy 2026 and related trade issues.
The meeting focused on multiple strategic areas including vehicle import and export regulations, additional customs duties, and the implementation of the national electric vehicle agenda.
Mr. Khan acknowledged the Car Dealers Importers Association as a significant stakeholder in the policy consultation process and underscored the government’s commitment to creating a liberalized and competitive car import regime, in line with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s vision.
“Open competition in car imports will create pressure on local manufacturers to improve and expand into exports,” he remarked. To maintain the quality of used car imports, he announced the introduction of mandatory registration and certification protocols.
As part of Pakistan’s broader shift toward sustainable mobility, Mr. Khan highlighted the National Electric Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025–2030. Under this initiative, the government targets the conversion of 2.2 million vehicles to electric by 2030.
“The promotion of electric vehicles is crucial for reducing smog and improving public health,” said Mr. Khan. “EVs are not only cost-effective but also beneficial for the environment and the people of Pakistan.”
The Car Dealers Importers Association assured the Ministry of their active cooperation and committed to submitting detailed proposals to support the policy-making process. In response, Mr. Khan reaffirmed the government’s openness to industry input and pledged full cooperation in the development of a forward-looking auto policy.
