Automakers Gain Streamlined Import Quota Process via PSW Integration

Automobile manufacturers will no longer need to submit manual applications to the Engineering Development Board (EDB) for import quota issuance. The EDB has successfully integrated with the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) as of July 17, 2025.

The PSW serves as a digital platform designed to centralize trade processes and eliminate paperwork, enabling entities involved in import, export, and transit activities to efficiently submit necessary data and documents through a unified point of access.

This initiative seeks to improve the ease of conducting business and promote transparency in regulatory approvals. Automotive manufacturers and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) can now electronically file requests for import quota approvals, which Customs will then process. Starting July 17, manufacturers and OEMs are required to acquire PSW User IDs.

Going forward, all requests must be submitted via PSW; the EDB will neither accept nor process manual submissions. The data will be synchronized between the PSW and WeBOC systems—Pakistan Customs’ electronic clearance platform—guaranteeing smooth processing, maintaining record integrity, and providing real-time visibility for both Customs and the EDB. EDB data indicates that over 100 OEMs are registered with the department.

According to the PSW team, automotive manufacturers previously had to apply manually to the EDB to obtain import quotas under SRO 656(I)/2006 dated 22.06.2022, to benefit from exemptions and concessions on component imports. This traditional method was time-intensive and lacked transparency, leaving manufacturers without insight into their application status.

Fully Digital System Launched

To overcome these issues, the PSW collaborated with the EDB and OEMs to create and implement a fully digital system. OEMs can now submit quota applications to the EDB electronically through the PSW platform, removing the need for physical paperwork and enabling them to track the progress of their applications in real time.

Any requests from the EDB for further information or clarification will also be handled via the PSW platform, ensuring clear and transparent communication between all parties.

Upon EDB approval, the import quota will be integrated with the WeBOC system, enabling manufacturers to utilize the quota directly during component imports.

This newly introduced digital system eliminates the need for manual, paper-based processes, substituting around 32 paper documents with electronic validations from relevant agencies. This is projected to substantially decrease the time and expenses that OEMs incur when securing quota approvals from the EDB.

Additionally, the PSW’s digital processing enhances application visibility and tracking, leading to heightened transparency and efficiency. Improved data visibility and analytics will also support better informed decision-making.

PSW officials stated that they held multiple sessions with stakeholders to gather feedback for designing a more effective system that addresses the challenges OEMs encounter when clearing their goods. Subsequently, PSW and EDB jointly conducted extensive change management sessions to train stakeholders on using the new digital system, ensuring a seamless transition from manual to electronic operations.

Over 100 OEMs involved in automotive parts manufacturing/assembling have praised the new initiative and the PSW’s digital solution, acknowledging its potential to eliminate redundancies and inefficiencies inherent in the previous paper-based system.

The PSW offers a digital platform that unites various stakeholders in cross-border trade, aiming to lower both the time and costs associated with international commerce.

The PSW primarily functions as a platform for integrating customs and regulatory clearance of import, export, and transit goods, based on a coordinated approach to cargo reporting, management, and clearance procedures. Phase 1 of the Pakistan Single Window was launched on June 30, 2022, and it is continuously adding new services, functionalities, and participants to the platform.