The Pakistani auto sector is witnessing a major new development. Ghandhara Industries Limited has officially entered into a strategic partnership with China’s Zhongtong Bus Holding Co. Limited. This collaboration aims to introduce and distribute luxury buses across Pakistan. The company disclosed this significant milestone in a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) yesterday.
Under this agreement, Ghandhara will expand its manufacturing capabilities. The company plans to establish a dedicated assembly line for Zhongtong buses. Currently, Ghandhara manufactures Isuzu automobiles. This new line will function alongside their existing bus body fabrication facility. Consequently, this allows the company to locally assemble and manufacture these luxury vehicles within Pakistan.
The introduction of these buses will follow a specific schedule. Ghandhara expects to launch Completely Built-Up (CBU) luxury buses starting in the first quarter of 2026. Following this initial launch, the local assembly of Zhongtong’s buses is scheduled to commence by mid-2026. However, the company noted that this timeline remains subject to regulatory approvals and the completion of plant expansion.
Zhongtong, founded in 1958, is a major Chinese manufacturer known globally for its commercial vehicles and energy-saving models. This partnership comes at a time of increased activity in the local market. While Japanese giants like Suzuki, Honda, and Toyota traditionally dominate, new entrants are changing the landscape. Companies like Hyundai, Kia, and Sazgar Engineering Works are creating more competition. Furthermore, NexGen Auto recently began electric vehicle production earlier this month, signalling rapid growth in the sector.