Pakistan is preparing stricter rules under a proposed vehicle import policy, following guidelines linked to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), officials familiar with the matter said. The Ministry of Industries and Production has drafted a new framework to regulate both commercial and used-vehicle imports.
The proposed changes would significantly restrict who can import vehicles and impose stricter compliance requirements before and after shipment.
Pakistan’s proposed vehicle import policy eligibility rules require company registration, NTN compliance, and the provision of mandatory after-sales support systems. It also enforces pre- and post-shipment inspections to ensure quality, safety, and environmental standards, aligning the sector with IMF-backed economic reforms.
New Rules Define Who Can Import Vehicles
Under the draft policy, only companies registered under the Companies Act 2017 and holding a valid National Tax Number (NTN) may import vehicles.
Individuals and sole proprietorships would no longer qualify for imports. This marks a shift toward formalising the sector and reducing undocumented transactions. The framework also introduces stricter operational requirements:
- Mandatory registration with the Engineering Development Board (EDB) for used vehicle importers
- Proof of after-sales service networks
- Availability of genuine spare parts
- Presence of trained technical staff and diagnostic facilities
Authorities say Pakistan will not allow vehicles without these support systems to enter the country. Officials said they developed the policy in line with IMF recommendations to improve transparency and reduce pressure on Pakistan’s external account.
The IMF has repeatedly urged Pakistan to limit non-essential imports and strengthen regulatory oversight as part of its broader economic reform program.
To ensure compliance, importers must submit:
- Pre-shipment inspection certificates verifying environmental and safety standards
- Fitness and quality testing documentation
- Post-shipment inspection certification after arrival
These steps aim to stop substandard vehicles from entering the market and bring Pakistan’s import regime into line with international benchmarks.
The stricter vehicle import policy in Pakistan is likely to reshape the auto import sector, particularly for small-scale importers that operate without formal corporate structures.
Industry stakeholders in Karachi, Sindh and Lahore, Punjab say compliance costs could rise due to documentation, infrastructure, and service requirements.
