Govt seeks China’s support for sodium-ion EV batteries

Pakistan has approached China for support in developing sodium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs), with Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighting EVs as a key area for future collaboration between the two nations.

At a press conference in Beijing, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal expressed Pakistan’s strong interest in partnering with Chinese companies to advance electric vehicle (EV) technology. He especially highlighted the development of sodium-ion batteries, which are seen as a future alternative to lithium-ion batteries. Iqbal said EVs are a growing sector and Pakistan is ready to benefit from China’s leadership in clean energy technologies.

He also announced that the Pakistan-China Business Conference will take place on September 4 in China. The event aims to promote cooperation in multiple sectors including electric vehicles, solar energy, agriculture, and chemicals. Over 250 Pakistani companies and more than 200 Chinese firms are expected to attend. The minister added that producing EVs in Pakistan would be cost-effective for Chinese investors and would help Pakistan reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. He said local EV production would create jobs, boost energy efficiency, and support long-term green development.

Pakistan’s National Electric Vehicle Policy 2025–2030 aims to make 30% of new vehicle sales electric by 2030. The country also targets zero transport emissions by 2060. The policy offers tax benefits, subsidies, infrastructure development, and support for local manufacturing to attract investors. Several Chinese companies, including BYD and Chery, are already working in Pakistan by assembling EVs and expanding charging networks. The minister called this collaboration a key step toward Pakistan’s green economy goals and welcomed more investment from Chinese firms in the EV sector.