Pakistan has, for the first time, enforced global vehicle safety and quality standards for all locally produced and imported cars, in a landmark move to improve road safety and environmental compliance.
The Ministry of Industries and Production, through the Engineering Development Board (EDB), has made compliance with WP-29 standards compulsory for both new and used imports. These standards, set by the United Nations World Forum for Harmonisation of Vehicle Regulations, are widely adopted worldwide to ensure vehicle safety.
The new regulations cover airbags, seat belts, braking systems, crash protection, child restraints, tyre safety, noise, emissions, and lighting systems. For electric and hydrogen vehicles, additional checks will apply, including battery safety and high-voltage protection.
Importers must now obtain pre-shipment inspection certificates from approved agencies such as JAAI (Japan) or KTL (Korea) to confirm that vehicles are roadworthy and free of tampering or structural damage. Post-shipment inspections will also be carried out in Pakistan.
Automakers have until June 30, 2026, to fully comply. After this deadline, the EDB will have the authority to revoke licenses of non-compliant companies.
Industry representatives, however, remain cautious. Amir Allawala of PAAPAM said, “The question is whether the EDB has the technical capacity to regulate such wide-ranging standards. Heavy reliance on foreign labs could increase costs and put additional pressure on foreign exchange reserves.”
Officials argue the step is vital to align Pakistan’s auto industry with international benchmarks, ensuring safer vehicles and stronger consumer protection.