The International Monetary Fund has reportedly called for the introduction of the strictest procedures for imported vehicles in Pakistan, according to well-placed sources in the Ministry of Industries and Production.
Officials say new standards and verification mechanisms are expected to be implemented from 1 July to tighten oversight of vehicle imports and ensure compliance with safety and environmental requirements.
The IMF has stressed that substandard vehicles or those failing to meet safety standards should not be allowed into the country. It has also recommended that non-filers and individuals not registered for tax purposes be barred from importing vehicles.
Under the proposed framework, only companies holding a National Tax Number (NTN) and registered under the Companies Act 2017 will be eligible to import vehicles. Individuals and sole proprietorships will not be permitted to do so.
Importers of used vehicles will also be required to register with the Engineering Development Board (EDB). Vehicles without after-sales service networks, genuine spare parts availability, or trained technical support will not be allowed for import.
Commercial importers will be required to provide proof of service arrangements, spare parts availability, trained workforce, and diagnostic facilities. Pre-shipment inspection certificates confirming quality and environmental compliance will be mandatory, along with post-shipment verification after arrival.
Authorities have also proposed that importers maintain complete digital records of all imported used vehicles, including engine and chassis numbers, to ensure transparency and traceability.
The Engineering Development Board will oversee registration and compliance under the proposed system once implemented.