Urdu Report Desk
Pakistan may allow the commercial import of used vehicles manufactured in 2016 or later as part of changes to its used car import policy. However, the eligibility of these vehicles will depend on the rules, environmental standards and safety requirements prescribed by the relevant authorities.
Recent reports have highlighted compliance with Euro 6 emissions standards as a key condition. These standards limit the pollutants released by vehicles. Importers would also need to meet the applicable testing and certification requirements before their vehicles could qualify.
Under the framework introduced in September 2025, commercial imports were initially permitted for vehicles less than five years old until June 30, 2026. The policy framework envisaged removing the vehicle age limit thereafter.
PAMA Raises Concerns Over Revised Import Rules
The regulatory changes introduced by the government in September 2026 have drawn criticism from the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA).
The association has urged the government to suspend implementation of the revised framework and review the changes, citing concerns that the policy could adversely affect local vehicle manufacturers and weaken existing safeguards.
Key Requirements for Importers and Buyers
Vehicle age: The revised commercial import framework provides for removing the previous age restriction, subject to applicable regulations.
Emissions and safety: Imported vehicles must meet the emissions standards, safety regulations and inspection requirements prescribed by the authorities.
Import costs: Regulatory duties, customs duties and other applicable taxes will continue to affect the final cost of imported vehicles.
Official Confirmation Needed for 2016 Models and Euro 6 Requirement
The specific claim that all vehicles manufactured in 2016 or later qualify for commercial import, subject to Euro 6 compliance, requires confirmation through the latest official government notification.
Available information indicates broader changes to Pakistan’s used vehicle import policy, but the specific manufacturing-year cutoff and mandatory Euro 6 condition have not been independently verified. These details should therefore not be treated as a confirmed government decision until the relevant notification is examined.
Potential Impact on Car Buyers
Relaxation of commercial used car import rules could expand the range of vehicles available to Pakistani buyers.
However, the effect on prices will depend on import costs, applicable taxes, compliance requirements and the availability of vehicles in the market.
