Lahor: Representatives of automotive companies in Pakistan, auto parts manufacturers, policy makers and academics participated in the conference to share their experiences and knowledge on this issue and the future prospects of the automotive industry in Pakistan. Many students from local universities attended the meeting.
The three topics discussed at the conference were Localization Obsession and Supply Chain Constraints, Policy, Industrial Reform and Development, Electrification and the Future of Mobility. Extensive and in-depth analysis and opinions are shared by experts on all topics and students also actively participate in discussion sessions.
The aim of our organization is the economic prosperity of Pakistan and this conference is a step towards achieving that by focusing on the automotive sector. Key issues to be addressed include the reasons for the lack of exports from the car industry, the delay of hybrids and EVs, and the future of the industry in terms of research and development. Despite 50-70 years of protection, the industry has not been able to export due to the economic downturn. In addition, the discussion will focus on whether the industry is moving towards driverless cars, hybrid cars, etc. He said it was not in line with global developments and would focus on the lack of local research activities. The aim is to have a constructive dialogue to develop policies and understand the issues that will lead to the growth of Pakistan’s automotive industry. Dr. Nadeem concluded by affirming PIDE’s efforts to continue to innovate, research and stimulate debate on important topics to foster real, productive dialogue that leads to impactful results for industrial development and integration. world market.
The PIDE team then presented their research findings on the status and future prospects of the automotive industry in Pakistan. The conference featured a second presentation by the PIDE team on the potential of electric vehicles in Pakistan and the challenges for its adoption. The participants appreciated the work done by PIDE as well as the organization’s efforts to bring together all stakeholders to develop and promote a comprehensive reform plan to revitalize the automobile industry in Pakistan.
The message from the meeting was clear that policy changes are needed if Pakistan is to grow its automotive industry. The focus must shift from the absolute localization of the industry to being part of a global value chain. For this purpose, it is important that local firms work with foreign companies not only for investment, but more importantly for the transfer of technology and expertise. Without competition and innovation, the automotive industry cannot be expected to become a major global industry, which should be the target for Pakistan. The role of universities for innovation has become very important, because the main research and development support in this industry must come from higher education institutions. Academia-industry collaboration is essential for futuristic innovation to address the challenges facing industry.
Dr. Usman Kadir, Senior Research Economist of PIDE, in his closing speech thanked all the participants for their participation and ideas in this important issue. He also said he would like to continue such discussions and collaborations with industry experts and other members of academia.
