FCCI Announces Plan to Establish 3,000 EV Charging Stations in Pakistan with Chinese Collaboration
Islamabad:The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Standing Committee on Energy has unveiled an ambitious plan to set up 3,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the country, in collaboration with China. This initiative aims to boost Pakistan’s electric transportation infrastructure and reduce dependence on traditional fuel imports.
**Collaboration with China**
Committee Convener, Malik Khuda Bakhsh, revealed that a partnership agreement has been signed with a renowned Chinese company and the Government of Pakistan to install EV charging stations along the motorway from Peshawar to Karachi. He further emphasized that this project is expected to attract around $350 million in foreign investment.
**Initial Investment and Future Plans**
Speaking at a ceremony in Karachi, where the FPCCI introduced the first “FV Flash Charging Station” in Pakistan, Malik Khuda Bakhsh elaborated that the initial investment for the establishment of these EV stations will amount to $90 million. He also noted that by February 2025, $250 million would be invested in manufacturing facilities related to electric vehicles and charging infrastructure.
The introduction of EV charging stations is seen as a significant step toward reducing the country’s fuel imports, thereby conserving foreign exchange reserves. Additionally, the project is expected to play a key role in reducing environmental pollution in Pakistan.
**Chinese Investment in Pakistan’s Energy Sector**
Malik Khuda Bakhsh highlighted the growing interest of Chinese investors in Pakistan’s energy sector, particularly in electric transportation and alternative energy. He stated that Chinese investors are actively engaging with the Pakistani government, the Sindh government, and the private sector to explore investment opportunities and facilitate technology transfer.
**Attractive Investment Opportunities in Energy Sector**
The committee also emphasized that Pakistan’s energy sector, especially in areas like the Thar coal fields and renewable energy, presents highly attractive opportunities for both domestic and foreign investors. The Sindh government, according to Malik Khuda Bakhsh, has assured investors of full support in terms of documentation and access to necessary land and facilities.
This strategic initiative marks a significant leap forward in Pakistan’s efforts to transition to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy system, with electric vehicles playing a pivotal role in the country’s future mobility.
