Pakistan Approves First Law to Ensure Safety Standards in All Vehicles
Federal cabinet has approved a groundbreaking law introducing minimum safety and environmental standards for all vehicles—both locally produced and imported. The Motor Vehicles Industry Development Act, passed on Wednesday, aims to regulate vehicle quality, performance, and compliance.
According to reports, the new law proposes jail terms of up to three years and fines reaching Rs. 10 million for those who violate its provisions. It is the first such initiative in the country to set formal safety benchmarks for vehicles.
The legislation requires every vehicle sold in Pakistan to be registered under the act and carry a certificate of conformity. Manufacturers and importers who fail to meet these requirements could face penalties, including imprisonment for up to one year or a fine starting at Rs. 500,000. Not issuing the mandatory certificate could result in six months’ imprisonment.
Companies that fail to recall defective vehicles may face up to two years in prison or a fine of at least Rs. 5 million. If a recall order issued by the Engineering Development Board (EDB) is ignored, violators could be sentenced to three years in jail or fined Rs. 10 million.
The draft legislation will now move to parliamentary committees for further scrutiny before being brought to a final vote.
The law also outlines that only licensed firms, with registered capital and a core focus on vehicle import, may bring in vehicles requiring repairs. However, imports under the baggage and gift schemes will continue to be exempt.
All vehicles will be required to display detailed technical specifications, including weight, size, seating capacity, and usage. Electric vehicles must also meet battery performance and recycling standards.
