KARACHI – Pakistan’s used car market could be heading for shake-up, with vehicles manufactured in 2016 and later potentially entering commercial import market as authorities ease longstanding restrictions.
The eligibility would depend on the applicable environmental, safety and quality requirements, while the exact model-year cutoff still needs official confirmation. The prospect could widen choices for buyers, but it does not guarantee cheaper cars. Regulatory duties, customs duties, other taxes and compliance expenses will continue to shape the final price.
The latest policy account highlights Euro 6 emissions compliance as key condition for eligibility. The standard sets limits on pollutants released by vehicles, while importers would also need to fulfil the prescribed testing, inspection and certification requirements.
However, the specific claim that all vehicles manufactured from 2016 onwards would qualify under a Euro 6 requirement remains unconfirmed. The broader policy changes alone do not establish that cutoff, making verification against the latest official notification essential before presenting it as a settled rule.
The development follows Pakistan’s push to liberalise commercial imports of used vehicles. Under the framework introduced in September 2025, imports were initially restricted to vehicles less than five years old until June 30, 2026, with the age limit scheduled to be removed thereafter. Removing that restriction could open the door to older vehicles, although importers would still have to satisfy all applicable standards and regulatory conditions.
The government’s September 2026 regulatory changes have drawn criticism from the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA), which has urged authorities to suspend and review the revised framework.
The association has raised concerns about pressure on domestic manufacturers and what it considers weakened safeguards under the new arrangements.
For buyers, the changes could mean a broader selection of imported used cars. Whether that translates into meaningful price relief will depend on import costs, compliance requirements and the number of vehicles reaching the market.
Which Cars will become Cheaper with 2.5% FED cut under Pakistan’s New Auto Policy 2026–31?
