UD Trucks to Return to Pakistan in 2027
KARACHI: Pakistan’s commercial vehicle market is set for a new shake-up as Japanese truck maker UD Trucks prepares to return to the country through a strategic partnership with Ghandhara Industries Limited.
Ghandhara Industries in a statement announced on Monday that it has signed a collaboration agreement with UD Trucks Corporation to import and distribute its completely built-up (CBU) trucks in Pakistan. The sales of the truck expected to begin in the first quarter of 2027.
However, the company has not announced the prices yet, but they could range from Rs20 million to Rs60 million, depending on the model and engine power.
The move marks the return of a historic Japanese truck brand to Pakistan, adding another major international name to an increasingly competitive heavy-duty vehicle market.
UD Trucks
UD Trucks, formerly known as Nissan Diesel, traces its roots back to 1935 and is now part of the Isuzu Group. The company operates across more than 60 countries and specialises in heavy-duty trucks and transportation solutions.
The brand is not new to Pakistan. UD Trucks previously operated in the local market and launched its Quester heavy-duty truck range in 2018, making its planned return particularly significant for the country’s trucking and logistics industry.
The partnership also creates an interesting link within Pakistan’s commercial vehicle sector. Ghandhara Industries already has an association with Isuzu, the Japanese automotive group that owns UD Trucks. The new agreement will therefore allow Ghandhara to broaden its presence across different segments of the truck market.
Unlike some recent automotive investments focused on local assembly, UD Trucks’ initial entry will be based on CBU imports. Ghandhara plans to begin importing and distributing the vehicles during January-March 2027.
The company said the partnership would expand its product portfolio and contribute positively to its future growth prospects.
The return of UD Trucks comes at a time when Pakistan’s logistics, freight and transportation sectors are seeking more efficient and reliable heavy-duty vehicles. The arrival of another established Japanese manufacturer could increase competition in a market traditionally dominated by a limited number of major players.
For Ghandhara, the agreement provides an opportunity to leverage its existing commercial vehicle network while introducing another globally recognised truck brand to Pakistani customers.
The key question for the market will now be whether UD Trucks’ return through imported vehicles will eventually lead to local assembly or manufacturing in Pakistan, depending on market response and future investment decisions.
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