ISLAMABAD: The emerging institutional conflict over vehicle standards in Pakistan has intensified, with the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) formally raising objections to the proposed Motor Vehicles Industry Development Act, 2025 (MVIDA), warning that the draft law unlawfully encroaches upon the mandate of the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA).
According to official correspondence sent by MoST to the Ministry of Industries and Production, serious concerns have been expressed over provisions in the draft legislation that grant the Engineering Development Board (EDB) powers to determine and enforce vehicle safety, quality, and environmental standards.
The letter reportedly underscores that PSQCA is the only legally designated national standards body, mandated under existing law to develop, notify, and enforce standards for all industrial and consumer products, including motor vehicles. Any attempt to assign similar powers to another department has been described as duplication of mandate and a violation of the legal framework.
“The authority for standardization, conformity assessment, and enforcement clearly rests with PSQCA,” the communication states, cautioning that creating parallel mechanisms would lead to regulatory overlap, institutional confusion, and legal complications.
The draft MVIDA, introduced by the Ministry of Industries and Production, seeks to establish a regulatory framework for Pakistan’s automotive sector. However, it significantly expands the role of the EDB—traditionally a policy and facilitation body—by empowering it to regulate vehicle standards, oversee compliance, and approve manufacturers.
Officials in MoST have warned that such provisions are not only inconsistent with existing laws but also contradict Pakistan’s international obligations. The letter points out that under the WTO Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), member countries are discouraged from maintaining multiple standards-setting authorities, while global practices recognize a single national body—PSQCA in Pakistan’s case.
The communication further highlights that PSQCA has already initiated steps to align Pakistan’s automotive standards with international benchmarks, including the adoption of type approval regimes and engagement with internationally accredited bodies.
In contrast, concerns have been raised about EDB’s lack of technical infrastructure and regulatory experience in standards enforcement. Critics argue that assigning such responsibilities to the Board could create a conflict of interest, given its close working relationship with the domestic auto industry.
Industry analysts note that Pakistan’s automobile sector has long faced criticism over pricing, safety, and quality concerns. The proposed shift in regulatory authority, they warn, may weaken independent oversight and reduce accountability.
MoST, in its letter, has reportedly urged the Ministry of Industries to review and amend the draft law, ensuring that the statutory role of PSQCA is preserved and institutional mandates are clearly defined to avoid duplication.
Legal experts echo these concerns, stating that overlapping jurisdictions could result in implementation challenges and may expose the law to judicial scrutiny.
While the government has presented the proposed Act as a step toward modernization of the auto sector, the ongoing disagreement between key ministries suggests that the draft may require significant revisions before it can be finalized.
As consultations continue, the issue is likely to evolve into a broader debate on regulatory governance, institutional autonomy, and consumer protection in Pakistan’s automotive industry.
