Pakistani Carmakers Still Waiting for Official Copy of New Auto Policy

Pakistan's automotive industry is still waiting to receive the official text of the newly announced auto policy, days after the government made the details public. The Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA), which represents the country's leading vehicle manufacturers, has written to the Ministry of Industries and Production requesting a copy of the document.

In the letter addressed to the ministry's secretary, PAMA Director General Razi-ur-Rahman congratulated the ministry on unveiling the long-awaited policy and described it as a timely step. He requested that an official copy of the document be shared with the association so that its members could review it. The request indicates that the industry is currently relying on public announcements rather than the final written policy.

The new policy was approved last week. At a press conference in Islamabad, the Prime Minister's Adviser on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar, outlined several key measures. Under the new rules, carmakers will not be permitted to collect more than 20 percent of a vehicle's price as an advance payment from buyers.

The policy also sets an ambitious export target, aiming to raise auto exports from about $200 million to $6 billion. Manufacturers that fail to meet their export targets will reportedly face penalties. In addition, the framework introduces 45 new quality standards and increases the financing limit for electric vehicles from Rs. 2 million to Rs. 10 million.

Officials said vehicle prices are expected to come down gradually as the policy takes effect. For now, the manufacturers who will be required to comply with the new rules on pricing, exports and vehicle quality are awaiting the formal document, highlighting a gap between the policy's announcement and its circulation to the industry.