KARACHI: After years of debate, key government stakeholders are approaching a consensus on Pakistan’s long-awaited automotive policy, potentially paving the way for the new framework to take effect soon.
The policy, known as the Auto Industry Development and Export Policy (AIDEP) 2026-31, aims to balance the competing interests of local industry protection and gradual tariff liberalization.
The draft policy, however, still requires final approval from the Prime Minister and the International Monetary Fund. The Ministry of Industries and Production (Mol&P) is advocating for continued protection for local assemblers and enhanced localization, while the Ministry of Commerce is pushing for lower tariffs on completely built-up units (CBUs), in line with the National Tariff Policy (NTP) 2025-30.
According to a recent analysis by JS Global, the final policy is expected to strike a middle ground, with a gradual reduction in CBU duties likely. To maintain the competitiveness of the domestic industry, the government may also lower duties on completely knocked-down (CKD) kits. This transition, the analysis notes, will likely constrain pricing power for manufacturers over the medium term as competition intensifies.
Gradual Tariff Cuts Imminent
The National Tariff Policy is pushing Pakistan toward a significantly lower tariff structure, aiming for a maximum customs duty of 15% on imported CBUs by 2030. This is a stark contrast to the current rates, which can be as high as 155% for larger vehicles. The Ministry of Industries and Production has proposed a more gradual approach, with tariff rates for different engine capacities set between 40% and 75% by 2030.
The government is also tightening regulations on used-car imports to protect the local industry. Schemes like Transfer of Residence and Gift imports are now subject to stricter safety and environmental standards, and a new import interval of 850 days has been imposed. Early signs of the policy’s impact are visible, with used-car imports declining 15% year-on-year in the third quarter of fiscal year 2026.
Sales Tax on Hybrids and EV Incentives
A key point of contention has been the sales tax on hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Concessionary rates expired on June 30, 2026, reverting vehicles to a 25% sales tax tier. While the government is not expected to reinstate the old rates, recent proposals suggest a new, reduced rate of 18% may be adopted.
Incentives for new energy vehicles (NEVs), including electric vehicles (EVs), are expected to remain a priority. The government has extended customs duty concessions on EV-specific parts for one year and retained a concessional sales tax rate of 1% for locally manufactured EVs. This comes as Pakistan maintains a long-term target for EVs to comprise 30% of new vehicle sales by 2030.
Outlook for the Auto Sector
While the new policy is expected to provide some near-term relief to local assemblers through CKD tariff adjustments, the long-term trajectory is toward greater competition.
“Gradual tariff liberalisation and rising competition should continue to constrain pricing power over the medium term, particularly with new entrants expanding,” the JS Global report stated.
