In March 2016, Pakistan introduced the “Auto Policy 2016-21” which offers tax incentives under Greenfield and Brownfield investment categories. New automakers can establish manufacturing/ assembly plants in the country under the Greenfield status whereas old non-functional plants were allowed to get back into the act under Brownfield status.
Renault, Nissan, Kia, SsangYong, Volkswagen, Hyundai and a couple of Chinese automakers have reportedly expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. Among these, Hyundai, Kia Renault are already in process of setting up their plants here.
Related: Master Motors Awarded Greenfield Status to Introduce Changan Vehicles in Pakistan
In addition, Master Motos (Changan), Sazgar (BAIC) and Prince (DFSK) were also able to get the Greenfield investment status are in process of setting up their assembly plants here. Dewan and Ghandhara were also able to get the Brownfield status to revive their defunct plants.
Now two more companies are ready to receive the approval to begin vehicle assembly here. These include Cavalier Autos, who have signed a vehicle assembly joint venture agreement with Beijing Automobile Works (BAW) of China. The company intends to launch light commercial vehicles LCVs, double cabin pickups and SUVs in Pakistan.
Related: 5 Stunning Facts About The Chinese Car Market
On the other hand Pak China Motors, formerly known as Karakoram Motors, have joined hands with Lifan Autos. Karakoram Motors during its previous tenure was the first to launch Chinese cars in Pakistan. They were the same people who introduced the Chery QQ in Pakistan are the sole distributors of some of the largest and famous Chinese automobile brands including Chery, Changan and Gonow. Karakoram Motors was also the first company of the world to assemble Right Hand Drive (RHD) vehicle outside China.
In 2008 Karakoram motors were about to launch the Lifan 520 sedan in Pakistan and huge ads in newspapers were being published in those days. A few of Lifan 520 sedans were also spotted on the roads but the actual launch of the said vehicle never occurred. Later those few imported units of the 520 sedans went into the use of their company employees.
Related: Lifan Autos to Focus on EVs only- Most Gasoline Engine Models Discontinued
The Auto Policy 2016-21 sure has opened up doors to competition, something that was non-existent in the auto sector until now. However we will have to wait for a couple of years more to let these new comers establish their plants here and offer their diverse portfolio to develop a healthy & competitive automobile market in Pakistan.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
