China’s ADEN Group has pledged a landmark $340 million investment to establish electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing facilities and a nationwide charging network in Pakistan, marking a significant leap toward sustainable transportation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Announced at a Karachi ceremony attended by top industrialists and investors, the project includes a $240 million EV plant and $90 million for 3,000 charging stations, with production set to begin by December 2024.
Sindh Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah vowed full provincial support, offering land and infrastructure for charging plants while committing to purchase 20% of the Karachi facility’s output if vehicles are discounted. The plant aims to produce 72,000 EVs annually, including small cars, mini trucks, and SUVs, with exports targeting the Middle East, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. “This partnership accelerates our shift to green mobility,” he stated, highlighting job creation and foreign investment benefits.
Local partner Malik Group revealed 30 Chinese-made charging units will arrive within 10 days, with Karachi’s first station operational and a Lahore launch planned this week. Chairman Malik Khuda Bakhsh projected 1,000 stations by year-end, alongside EV production. ADEN CEO Yasser Bhambani emphasized Pakistan’s strategic potential as an EV hub, citing rising domestic demand and export opportunities.
The event drew prominent figures like investor Arif Habib and industrialist Zubair Tufail, signaling broad corporate endorsement. Analysts predict the initiative could reduce emissions, cut fuel imports, and strengthen Sino-Pak industrial ties. With Sindh’s purchase guarantee and plans for thousands of jobs, the project positions Pakistan to emerge as a regional EV player, potentially transforming its transport sector by 2025.
