PM approves final draft of auto policy; focus on localisation, EVs, and consumer protection

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formally approved Pakistan's final draft Automotive Industry Policy, signaling the next step in the policy's journey to Federal Cabinet approval. Speaking alongside Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Haroon Akhtar Khan, the Prime Minister's adviser on Industries and Production, highlighted the policy's strategic focus on localisation, electric vehicles (EVs), and consumer protection.

The adviser emphasized that localisation was a top priority, citing its role in job creation, industrial development, and economic self-reliance, while discouraging the country's automotive industry from remaining reliant on imports. Safety concerns for consumers and passengers were also a key consideration, with a strong emphasis on promoting EV adoption to decrease dependence on imported petroleum products and reduce inflationary pressures.

Transparency and consumer protection were also highlighted, with mandatory limits on advance payments for vehicle bookings and the inclusion of third-party audits in the policy framework. The policy seeks to transition Pakistan's automotive sector from an import-dependent and assembly-oriented industry to a competitive, export-oriented manufacturing base. After the final approval by the Federal Cabinet, the policy will be implemented.