ISLAMABAD: Pakistan plans to build a domestic lithium-ion battery industry as a new pillar of national energy security, aiming to cut import dependence, attract foreign investment and support solar power and electric vehicles.
The focus came into sharp view at a high-level meeting on Wednesday reviewing the proposed National Lithium-Ion Battery Manufacturing Policy 2026-31, chaired by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan.
A dedicated working group for the battery policy was formed on Dec. 12, 2025, bringing together federal and provincial ministries, industry players, universities and international experts. Pakistan also hopes to leverage its own mineral potential. Khan said reserves of phosphate, iron and manganese found in various regions could support battery production and help reduce reliance on costly imports.
In a key decision, the committee approved lithium iron phosphate (LFP) technology for initial localization, citing its safety and suitability for Pakistan’s needs. LFP batteries are widely used in solar energy systems, electric vehicles, backup power solutions and telecom towers. Plans are also underway to develop a framework for battery testing, certification and recycling to address environmental concerns.
The meeting was told that several million-dollar agreements related to battery manufacturing have already been signed under business-to-business cooperation with China.
