Used car imports in Pakistan surge 4,600% amid soaring demand for foreign vehicles

Imports of used cars into Pakistan have skyrocketed by an astonishing 4,600%, underscoring a dramatic surge in consumer demand for imported vehicles.

The sharp rise comes as buyers increasingly turn to second-hand foreign cars, drawn by relatively lower prices, better fuel efficiency and limited availability of affordable new models in the domestic market. Industry observers say the boom reflects both pent-up demand and shifting preferences among middle- and upper-middle-class consumers.

While the massive percentage increase highlights the scale of the recovery in the used-car import segment, it has also raised questions about the impact on the local auto industry and the country’s foreign-exchange reserves.