Pakistan launches national EV policy to combat climate change

PM Shehbaz Sharif dubs rollout of Pakistan's EV policy a vital step in addressing climate change
An undated image. — iStock
An undated image. — iStock

As Pakistan continues its push towards the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched Pakistan’s first-ever national EV policy, known as the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025-30.

The prime minister dubbed the rollout of Pakistan's EV policy a vital step in addressing climate change and bringing about the government's green transformation agenda.

How much Pakistan contributes to global carbon emissions?

Pakistan reportedly contributes less than 1% to global carbon emissions, but is still on the list of the ten most climate-affected countries, the PM highlighted at a ceremony in Islamabad.

He also emphasised that Pakistan alone is unable to bear the financial burden of climate recovery, calling for more international support for nations facing climate challenges.

“Our carbon footprint is tiny, but the impact on lives and infrastructure is devastating,” Sharif noted, recalling the 2022 floods that resulted in nearly 1,700 deaths and over $30 billion in damages, along with this year’s monsoon disasters that claimed more than 700 lives.

EV policy and EV bike subsidies in Pakistan

One of the standout aspects of the NEV is that it also includes subsidies for EV bikes to make electric transport more accessible.

Regarding the shift to environment-friendly mobility, the PM highlighted that this is necessary for both the environment and an economic opportunity, reducing reliance on expensive fossil fuel imports and aligning Pakistan with global green initiatives.

Experts believe that this EV transition is likely to create thousands of jobs and bring Pakistan to the forefront of a “green industrial revolution.”