The Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM) has called for consistent industrial policies and a more competitive business environment to unlock the full potential of Pakistan’s auto parts industry.

PAAPAM Chairman Usman Malik said the local industry has invested billions of rupees over several decades in manufacturing facilities, tooling, engineering capabilities and quality systems, while supporting thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

He said Pakistani auto parts manufacturers have the capacity to produce internationally competitive products, but sustained growth requires policy continuity, competitive energy tariffs, affordable financing, export facilitation and a stable investment environment.

Former PAAPAM Chairman Aamir Allawala, meanwhile, said comparisons between Pakistan’s automotive industry and the JF-17 Thunder programme overlook fundamental differences between the two sectors. He noted that the JF-17 was backed by long-term government commitment, public investment and assured institutional demand, while the auto parts sector largely operates through private investment and market-driven demand.

Allawala said the comparison nevertheless underscores the importance of long-term planning and policy consistency for industrial development. He added that addressing high energy costs, expensive financing, taxation, logistics constraints and limited market access could significantly improve the competitiveness of Pakistan’s auto parts industry and strengthen its contribution to employment, import substitution and economic growth.