Government reaffirms safety measures for imported used vehicles

FBR Introduces 200% Higher Tax Rates

Islamabad, December 4, 2025 – The government has reiterated its commitment to enforcing strict safety and environmental standards for all imported used vehicles, ensuring consumer protection and supporting the stability of Pakistan’s auto industry.

This assurance was given by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, during a meeting with representatives of the auto sector on Thursday.

The meeting was attended by Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Production, Saif Anjum, and Engineering Development Board (EDB) CEO, Hammad Mansoor, according to an official press release.

During the discussion, industry stakeholders highlighted challenges confronting the local auto sector, including rising imports of used vehicles, tax-related concerns, and the need for a level playing field for domestic manufacturers. Representatives of the Pakistan Auto Manufacturers Association stressed that unchecked used vehicle imports could jeopardize the progress made by local assemblers. They urged the government to strengthen tax reforms and tighten import controls to ensure fair competition.

Haroon Akhtar Khan acknowledged the auto industry’s vital contribution to Pakistan’s large-scale manufacturing sector. He confirmed that, under the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the government is preparing new legislation and regulatory measures to address industry concerns comprehensively.

He emphasized that only used vehicles meeting approved safety, quality, and environmental benchmarks will be permitted into Pakistan. Pre-shipment inspections will verify compliance, ensuring transparency and consumer safety.

Secretary Saif Anjum reaffirmed that for commercial imports, existing conditions—such as three years of overseas residency and one-year vehicle ownership—will remain intact.

Haroon Akhtar Khan concluded that the upcoming regulatory framework will promote merit-based competition, efficiency, and the long-term growth of local auto manufacturing.