The Ministry of Industries and Production has, for the first time, enforced a comprehensive set of quality and safety standards for all vehicles in Pakistan, including both imported and locally manufactured units.
The move, approved by the federal cabinet on the recommendation of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), is aimed at aligning the country’s automotive sector with internationally recognized practices under the United Nations framework for vehicle regulations.
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According to official notifications issued by the Engineering Development Board (EDB), every new or used vehicle entering Pakistan will now be required to meet a wide range of standards.
These include requirements for braking systems, airbags, seat belts, lighting systems, emission levels, noise limits, structural integrity, frontal, side and pole impact crash protection, child restraint systems, head restraints, tyre safety, glazing, and systems tailored for electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Imported units will also need pre-shipment inspection certificates from approved agencies such as JAAI in Japan or KTL in Korea, confirming that the vehicles are roadworthy, untampered, and safe. Upon arrival, they will undergo post-shipment inspections at designated centres in Pakistan.
Local assemblers and manufacturers have also been directed to comply with the same standards, with a deadline of June 30, 2026. Failure to meet the requirements could result in the cancellation of manufacturing licenses or import authorisations.
While the government insists the step is critical for road safety and environmental compliance, auto industry stakeholders have voiced concerns about the lack of domestic testing labs and the high costs of certifying parts abroad.
