ISLAMABAD: A high-level meeting at the Ministry of Commerce, co-chaired by Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries Haroon Akhtar Khan, discussed key measures for regulating used car imports, supporting local auto manufacturers, and protecting the interests of overseas Pakistanis.
According to an official statement, representatives from the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA), Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts & Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), and officials from the Ministry of Industries, Commerce, and FBR attended the session.
Jam Kamal Khan said the meeting aimed to review the automobile sector following the resumption of commercial imports of used cars and to ensure transparency in schemes for overseas Pakistanis.
He proposed introducing pre- and post-shipment inspection systems through the Engineering Development Board (EDB) to ensure quality and curb misuse.
“By enforcing quality inspections and clear import rules, we aim to promote compliance and transparency while supporting Pakistan’s industrial growth,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s focus on helping local manufacturers and boosting domestic production to strengthen the auto industry. The government is also working on amending import schemes to prevent commercial exploitation, ensuring genuine use by overseas Pakistanis.
The minister said a 40% regulatory duty has already been imposed on commercial used car imports, which will be gradually reduced each year to balance competition and protect local manufacturers.
Officials also reviewed proposals to harmonise the baggage, gift, and transfer of residence schemes, with suggestions to standardise the minimum stay abroad requirement to simplify rules.
SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan praised the industry’s input and called for stronger coordination between the commerce and industries ministries, stressing the importance of industry engagement for a sustainable and competitive automotive ecosystem.
Industry representatives from PAMA and PAAPAM shared proposals on localisation, vendor development, tariff rationalisation, and research incentives.
The commerce minister instructed all stakeholders to submit comprehensive recommendations for the upcoming long-term automotive policy, aligning with national industrial objectives.
Concluding the meeting, Jam Kamal Khan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, fair trade practices, and collaboration with the private sector, saying the goal was not only to stop misuse of import schemes but also to boost local manufacturing and make Pakistan’s automotive sector globally competitive.