Pakistan Introduces Landmark Vehicle Safety Law to Regulate All Local and Imported Cars
In a historic move, the federal cabinet has approved Pakistan’s first-ever law on vehicle safety standards — the Motor Vehicles Industry Development Act. This new legislation sets mandatory safety, quality, and environmental benchmarks for all vehicles—both locally assembled and imported.
📌 Key Highlights of the New Law:
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Vehicles must be registered under the new framework and possess a certificate of conformity before being sold.
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Violators could face up to three years in prison or fines as high as Rs. 10 million.
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Importers and manufacturers failing to meet standards may face up to one year in jail or a minimum Rs. 500,000 fine.
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Failure to issue a certificate may result in six months of imprisonment, while ignoring vehicle recalls could lead to two years’ jail or Rs. 5 million in fines.
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Defying a mandatory recall order from the Engineering Development Board (EDB) could result in a three-year jail term or a Rs. 10 million penalty.
💡 Vehicle Imports and Licensing:
Only licensed companies with approved capital and vehicle imports as their primary business will be allowed to bring in vehicles needing repairs. However, vehicles imported under the baggage or gift schemes will be exempt from these requirements.
🛑 Mandatory Technical Standards:
All vehicles must display detailed specifications including:
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Size, weight, and seating capacity
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Type of usage (commercial/personal)
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For electric vehicles: battery type, charging protocols, recycling, and performance standards
In case of safety risks, even previously approved vehicles or parts must be recalled immediately. If not acted upon, the EDB has the authority to enforce direct recalls.
📍 The bill will now be reviewed by parliamentary committees before moving to the final vote.
This landmark legislation represents a major step forward for road safety and consumer protection in Pakistan’s automotive sector.
