China’s BAIC Moves Forward with Auto Manufacturing Plans in Punjab
China’s BAIC Group is progressing in its discussions to launch vehicle manufacturing operations in Punjab, marking a significant step in Pakistan’s automotive industry growth. The development follows a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year between the company and the Punjab Board of Investment & Trade (PBIT).
A strategic meeting took place on Friday at the PBIT office in Lahore, chaired by PBIT Chairman Muhammad Muntaha Ashraf. The session was attended by BAIC Overseas Investment CFO Ms. Dai Runqi, PBIT Board Member Ahmed Ali Tariq, and CEO Dr. Suhail Saleem.
According to official sources, BAIC is finalising its plans to establish an automotive production facility in Punjab, with an estimated capacity of 20,000 vehicles per year. The initiative aims to introduce cutting-edge automotive technology to Pakistan, generate skilled employment opportunities, and cater to both domestic and international markets.
Chairman Ashraf highlighted that this collaboration signifies growing investor confidence in Punjab’s industrial ecosystem. He described the partnership as a key step toward transforming the province into a regional hub for high-tech manufacturing and sustainable economic expansion.
The project stems from a recent PBIT delegation visit to China, where both parties signed an MoU to enhance cooperation in the automotive and industrial sectors. The forthcoming investment by BAIC is expected to strengthen Pakistan-China economic ties and drive progress within the local manufacturing landscape.