Chinese Zhongtong to Start Luxury Bus Manufacturing in Pakistan by 2026
Chinese bus manufacturer Zhongtong Bus Holding Co. Ltd. is preparing to commence local assembly and manufacturing of luxury buses in Pakistan by mid-2026, following a formal partnership with Ghandhara Industries Limited (GIL). The collaboration marks a significant development in Pakistan’s automotive and transport manufacturing sector, with an emphasis on localisation and industrial expansion.
According to a filing submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange on November 28, GIL has officially signed an agreement with Zhongtong for the introduction and distribution of luxury buses in the Pakistani market. Under the agreement, GIL will establish a dedicated manufacturing line specifically for Zhongtong buses. This new facility will operate alongside the company’s existing bus body fabrication unit, enabling local assembly and manufacturing of Zhongtong vehicles within Pakistan.
The disclosed documents outline a phased rollout plan for the project. In the first phase, GIL is expected to introduce Completely Built-Up (CBU) Zhongtong luxury buses in Pakistan during the first quarter of 2026. The second phase will focus on local assembly and manufacturing, which is targeted to begin by mid-2026, subject to regulatory approvals and completion of the ongoing plant expansion.
GIL described the partnership as a major milestone in strengthening its product portfolio and future growth prospects. The initiative is expected to enhance the company’s manufacturing capabilities while reducing reliance on imported heavy vehicles. For Zhongtong, the collaboration provides an opportunity to expand its presence in Pakistan’s growing transport sector.
The filing, signed by the company’s secretary, confirms that plant expansion work is currently underway to align with the planned 2026 production schedule, highlighting steady progress toward local manufacturing operations.