Pakistan, China Deepen EV Cooperation

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Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has identified electric vehicles (EVs) as a strategic focus for future cooperation between Pakistan and China, ahead of the Pakistan-China Business Conference scheduled to take place in Beijing on September 4.

Speaking in Islamabad, Iqbal underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral ties in advanced technology sectors. “We are looking to leverage China’s leadership in emerging technologies, particularly in electric mobility, renewable energy, and next-generation batteries,” he said.

The upcoming conference will bring together policymakers, investors, and business leaders from both countries to explore investment opportunities in EV technology, solar energy, chemicals, and agriculture. Iqbal noted that Pakistan is keen to adopt Chinese innovations such as sodium-ion batteries, which offer several advantages over traditional lithium-ion systems, including lower cost and greater environmental safety.

Iqbal also highlighted the potential benefits for Chinese firms interested in EV manufacturing within Pakistan, citing lower production costs and growing market demand. “Local production of electric vehicles will not only reduce our dependency on fossil fuels but also support energy efficiency, generate employment, and contribute to sustainable economic growth,” he stated.

The initiative aligns with Pakistan’s recently introduced National Electric Vehicle Policy (2025–2030), which sets ambitious targets: 30 percent of all new vehicle sales in the country should be electric by 2030, with a longer-term goal of achieving net-zero transport emissions by 2060. The policy framework includes tax incentives, subsidies, infrastructure support, and measures to encourage local manufacturing and component sourcing.

Several Chinese companies have already begun investing in Pakistan’s EV sector. Firms such as BYD and Chery are reportedly engaged in EV assembly, dealership expansion, and charging infrastructure development. Officials say these partnerships could help position Pakistan as a regional hub for electric vehicle manufacturing and export.

Iqbal emphasized that Pakistan views the green energy transition as an opportunity to modernize its transport and energy sectors while deepening economic integration with China under the broader China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative.

With EVs playing a central role in both national policy and upcoming trade discussions, the September conference is expected to result in new agreements and pilot projects aimed at accelerating the shift toward sustainable transport solutions in Pakistan.