Indus Motors to Export Vehicles

Indus Motor Company's (IMC) recent initiative to export Toyota vehicles marks a significant milestone for Pakistan's automotive industry. IMC's plan includes exporting models such as the Toyota Fortuner, Hilux, and Corolla Cross to Oceanian countries. This move not only enhances Pakistan’s presence in the global market but also aligns with the government's AIDEP 21-26 policy, which aims to boost the automotive sector by encouraging exports of localized parts and vehicles. 

However, this initiative also highlights certain criticisms of the government’s policies. Critics argue that the AIDEP 21-26 policy, while ambitious, has been slow in implementation, often lacking the necessary support infrastructure for manufacturers. Additionally, the policy's focus on exporting localized parts has not adequately addressed the broader challenges faced by the industry, such as high production costs, inconsistent quality standards, and limited access to advanced manufacturing technologies. These issues can hinder Pakistan's competitiveness in the global automotive market. 

In contrast, India's automotive export sector is already well-established. In the fiscal year 2023-24, India saw a surge in car exports, with a notable 32.42% increase in June 2024 alone. Leading the charge are manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai, which dominate both domestic and international markets. Smaller passenger vehicles and SUVs, such as the Renault Kwid and Hyundai i20, are particularly popular. 

India’s robust export figures highlight its significant role in the global automotive market. Brands like Volkswagen and Nissan have successfully leveraged India’s manufacturing capabilities to tap into new markets, further solidifying the country's position as a key player in automobile manufacturing and export【9†source】. However, the Indian government also faces criticism for its policies, particularly concerning the electric vehicle (EV) sector. Delays in infrastructure development and inconsistencies in policy implementation have slowed down the growth of the EV market, which is crucial for sustaining long-term competitiveness in the global automotive industry. 

While Pakistan’s foray into vehicle exports is a promising development, India's automotive industry continues to set benchmarks with its diverse range of exported models and strategic international expansions. The progress of IMC’s export initiative will be crucial in determining its long-term impact on Pakistan’s economy and its ability to compete globally. Nonetheless, addressing the criticisms of government policies will be essential for both countries to fully capitalize on their automotive export potential.