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November 15, 2024

RIAA advises BYD on strategic entry into Pakistan’s EV Market

RIAA Barker Gillette Pakistan advised BYD on licensing of its technology to Mega Motor Company (Private) Limited for assembly of EVs in Pakistan.

representation of a BYD EV

RIAA Barker Gillette successfully advised BYD, the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, on its strategic entry into Pakistan. The landmark partnership with Mega Motor Company, a Hub Power Holdings Limited subsidiary, marks a significant development in Pakistan’s emerging electric vehicle sector.

The firm’s mandate encompassed structuring a complex technical licensing framework that addressed critical regulatory considerations, including foreign exchange regulations, intellectual property protection, and technical compliance requirements. Our team developed solutions to navigate Pakistan’s regulatory landscape while ensuring robust protection of BYD’s proprietary technology and quality standards.

This transaction represents a significant milestone in Pakistan’s automotive sector transformation. Local assembly operations are set to commence by 2026. The project  aligns with Pakistan’s transition towards sustainable transportation, with electric vehicles projected to constitute up to 50% of the country’s auto sales by 2030

“This transaction demonstrates Pakistan’s growing attractiveness for global automotive manufacturers in the EV space,” said Bilal Shaukat, Managing Partner at RIAA Barker Gillette Pakistan. “Our role was to create a robust legal framework that protects BYD’s interests while facilitating their contribution to Pakistan’s sustainable transportation future.”

The successful completion of this transaction positions BYD to establish a significant manufacturing presence in Karachi, marking a pivotal development in Pakistan’s electric vehicle ecosystem.

Our team was led by the Managing Partner of Pakistan, Bilal Shaukat, and included Senior Associate Parus Qureshi and Trainee Associate Sameer Arshad.

Contact Bilal Shaukat today for more information on our expertise in Pakistan’s auto manufacturing sector.

This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.


RIAA Barker Gillette is Pakistan’s premier law firm, with an on-the-ground presence in four major cities in Pakistan: Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar, and affiliated offices in Dubai (DIFC) and London.

The firm practices in all areas of corporate, commercial and dispute resolution law. Leading international legal directories consistently recognize the firm as a top-tier law firm in Pakistan.

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RIAA Barker Gillette is the exclusive member firm in Pakistan for Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in over 125 countries worldwide.  

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What clients say...

  • Chambers Asia-Pacific 2025

    "RIAA Barker Gillette has always had the most apt ability to handle, manage and steer complex and difficult matters in the right legal direction."

  • Legal 500 2025

    "We have worked with RIAA on a number of complex multi-jurisdictional matters. Throughout, they provided not only exceptional local advice but proved excellent at collaborating with firms across the world. They were instrumental in developing and implementing a comprehensive strategy."

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