In a first, first shipment of 40 Honda City cars exported to Japan

In a historic milestone for Pakistan’s car industry, Honda Atlas Cars Pakistan (HACPL) has officially started automobile exports, dispatching its first-ever batch of 40 Honda City 1.2L devices to Japan. This success marks a massive step toward Pakistan’s integration into the global car market. 

The launch ceremony, held at the Honda Atlas vehicles Pakistan plant, was attended by key government and industry stakeholders. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) for Industries and Production, Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan, became the chief visitor, joined by Secretary of the Ministry of Industries and Manufacturing, Mr. Saif Anjum, and CEO of the Engineering Development Board, Mr. Khuda Baksh Ali. 

As per a statement from the Ministry of Industries and Production on Saturday, HACPL’s first-ever CBU (completely built-up) exports reinforced the business enterprise’s commitment to global-class manufacturing standards. This move also sets the stage for future expansion into different international markets. 

A Shift towards Exports 

Until recently, Pakistan’s vehicle sector has largely depended on importing components and assembling motors locally. Corporations like Toyota Indus Automobiles, Honda Atlas, and Pak Suzuki have ruled the local market. But this trend is starting to change. 

Read more: Atlas Honda to launch premium electric bikes in Pakistan by June

In July 2023, Toyota Indus Motors exported 50 units of famous models, including the Fortuner, Corolla Go, and IMV series, to other Toyota-affiliated agencies. Further, Hyundai Nishat lately introduced the export of Santa Fe Hybrid CBUs to Sri Lanka, highlighting their commitment to international requirements and government policies. 

Changan Pakistan also made headlines in 2023 by exporting a batch of 14 Oshan X7 SUVs to Kenya and Tanzania, becoming Pakistan’s first volume exporter of technologically advanced SUVs. 

The challenges 

Despite these positive steps, the automobile sector still faces issues like high manufacturing prices, unstable exchange rates, and supply chain disruptions. However, the government has reiterated its assistance through favorable policies to assist producers in entering international markets. 

Encouraging more companies to follow suit, Haroon Akhtar emphasized that increasing exports will lead to business growth and economic stability.