The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has raided the Engineering Development Board (EDB) over a controversial notification that reopened commercial imports of used vehicles.
The FIA team visited the EDB office and sought records linked to the September 30 notification, according to sources cited by local media. Reports also said investigators took phones and laptops from officials whose roles they are examining.
The development has intensified an ongoing dispute between the EDB and the Ministry of Industries and Production.
FIA Examines Used-Car Import Notification
The FIA is reportedly reviewing records related to different EDB policies and recruitments. Investigators are also examining the circumstances surrounding the latest used-vehicle import notification.
Sources have alleged that officials issued changes without the required approval. They have also raised questions about possible links between used-car importers and EDB officials.
However, authorities have not established wrongdoing against any individual.
The FIA has not publicly confirmed the allegations or disclosed the full scope of its inquiry.
Notification Reopens Commercial Used-Car Imports
The controversy centres on the EDB notification issued on September 30, 2026. The notification revised the eligibility and inspection framework for commercially imported used vehicles.
Under the new rules, qualifying companies, proprietorships and partnership firms can import used vehicles commercially.
Proprietorships and partnerships must hold valid National Tax Number and sales tax registrations.
Previously, commercial importers had to operate as companies incorporated under the Companies Act, 2017. The new framework also removes an earlier minimum capital requirement.
The notification retains applicable UNECE WP.29 safety and environmental standards.
These standards cover areas such as braking, airbags, seat belts, lighting, tyres, steering and emissions.
Inspection Rules Also Change
The new framework changes how authorities inspect imported vehicles. Importers must obtain a pre-shipment certificate from an internationally accredited inspection body registered with the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA).
After the vehicle reaches Pakistan, the local representative of the same inspection company must verify the relevant documents.
The new system differs from the mechanism introduced in September 2025.
That earlier framework required third-party post-shipment inspection at an EDB-designated facility at the importer’s expense.
Around 15,000 Vehicles Reportedly at Karachi Port
Sources estimate that around 15,000 used vehicles are currently parked at Karachi Port. The latest notification could potentially allow their release if they meet the applicable requirements.
However, concerns have emerged over post-arrival inspection. Critics of the revised system fear that weak physical checks could create safety and compliance risks.
The new rules still require vehicles to meet prescribed safety and environmental standards.
Dispute Reaches the Courts
The used-car import issue has also triggered legal and administrative disputes. The Economic Coordination Committee previously deferred the matter and called for further work on the EDB’s inspection mechanism.
The government later formed a committee led by Federal Minister Musadik Malik to examine issues involving the EDB and PSQCA.
Sources say Malik has maintained that commercial used-vehicle imports should not reopen before the committee submits its findings to the prime minister.
The latest notification has therefore added further pressure to an already unsettled policy dispute.
Officer Behind Notification Also Under Scrutiny
Questions have also emerged over the EDB officer who signed the notification. Sources described the officer as being close to the current EDB CEO.
Reports said the officer has since faced administrative action and received directions to report to the Establishment Division.
Sources also alleged that the officer continued to remain at the EDB office despite those directions.
These claims remain subject to investigation.
FIA Continues Examination
The FIA is now examining relevant records and the roles of officials connected with the disputed notification. The agency is also expected to assess whether the notification followed the required approval process.
Meanwhile, the EDB must provide a report to the prime minister on the matter.
For now, the commercial used-car import framework remains at the centre of a wider dispute over regulatory authority, vehicle safety and government approvals.
The FIA investigation could determine whether officials breached procedures when the latest notification was issued.
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