Pakistan’s auto industry meets just 18 of 200 global safety standards: report

Pakistani car manufacturers are currently adhering to only 18 out of 200 internationally recognised vehicle safety standards, officials disclosed during a session of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Industry and Production.

The committee expressed serious concern over the lack of compliance, especially given that vehicle prices in Pakistan surpass those in many international markets. Members demanded immediate action against companies failing to meet safety benchmarks.

Committee Chairman Syed Hafeezuddin linked the growing number of road accidents in the country to the poor safety features in locally manufactured vehicles. “Vehicle manufacturers are responsible for implementing safety standards, and our inability to meet them is also hindering vehicle exports,” he said. Hafeezuddin pointed out that neighboring countries like India and China have made significant progress in automobile exports due to better adherence to safety protocols.

Officials from the Ministry of Industries and Production informed the committee that the provision of only two airbags continues in most cars. The committee also criticised three foreign companies operating in Pakistan for not complying with local regulations.

Committee member Muhammad Ali Sarfaraz opposed granting further leniency to companies that have been operating in Pakistan for decades but have not aligned with global safety norms.

“Instead of giving them more time, the government should take strict action,” he urged.

The discussion underscored long-standing concerns about the auto industry’s standards, which have faced criticism for prioritizing cost-cutting over consumer safety. The committee is expected to make formal recommendations to enforce stricter oversight.