Ahsan Iqbal Highlights EV Sector as Key in China Ties

Leveraging China’s EV technology, Pakistan aims to shift from fossil fuels

P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor

Ahsan Iqbal Highlights EV Sector as Key in China Ties


During his official visit to Beijing, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal reaffirmed Pakistan’s keen interest in leveraging China’s technological expertise to advance its electric vehicle (EV) sector, as reported by Radio Pakistan.

Pakistan and China continue to build upon their long-standing strategic partnership, rooted in economic collaboration, mutual trust, and regional connectivity. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has been a flagship initiative reflecting both nations’ shared development goals.

P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor

While addressing the media, Iqbal expressed Pakistan’s strong desire to adopt and localise Chinese advancements in green technologies, especially in EV manufacturing. He highlighted emerging technologies such as sodium-ion batteries, which provide a more sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional lithium-based systems.

The minister emphasised that establishing EV manufacturing facilities in Pakistan would offer cost-effective opportunities for Chinese investors while enabling Pakistan to curb its dependence on imported fossil fuels.

In a series of high-level meetings, Iqbal discussed deepening economic and industrial collaboration. He met with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to review the next phase of CPEC, particularly focusing on industrial expansion and business-to-business cooperation. Further discussions with Lu Hao, President of China’s Development Research Centre, echoed the shared commitment to economic innovation and sustainable growth.

Meanwhile, the Pakistani government recently approved a comprehensive five-year subsidy plan to introduce 116,000 electric bikes and over 3,000 electric rickshaws and loaders. With a projected investment of Rs100 billion, the initiative aims to accelerate EV adoption, reduce oil dependency, and promote environmental sustainability. The scheme is expected to be officially launched by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on August 14.