Pak Suzuki makes first export of Japanese-spec mini-vehicles to Brunei
- First time for Suzuki to export from an overseas production base model
Pakistan’s auto industry scored a key export win as Suzuki rolled out Alto and Every models made by its Pakistani subsidiary, Pak Suzuki Motor Company, in Brunei.
The launch, announced on August 27, “marks the first time for Suzuki to export from an overseas production base models having the same body size and engine displacement specifications as Japanese mini-vehicles,” the Japanese auto giant said in a statement.
With the launch of the Alto and Every, Suzuki is expanding its automobile lineup in the Brunei market. In addition, Boustead announced that it will begin handling of Suzuki motorcycles, with sales scheduled to commence around autumn 2026, the company added.
PSMC was incorporated in Pakistan as a public limited company in August 1983, formed as a joint venture between Pakistan Automobile Corporation Limited and Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan. Suzuki Motor Corporation is the majority shareholder.
The company is the local assembler, manufacturer, and marketer of Suzuki cars, pickups, vans, 4x4s, and motorcycles, along with their related spare parts. The Suzuki brand itself originates from Japan. The company has pioneered the automobile market in Pakistan and has largely maintained a market-leading position, often commanding over 50% of the passenger car category. It also boasts the largest nationwide network of 175 dealerships across more than 100 cities.
In 2023, PSMC faced significant operational challenges, primarily due to import restrictions imposed by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on the opening of Letters of Credit (LCs), leading to severe inventory shortages. This resulted in numerous plant shutdowns throughout the year for both its automobile and motorcycle plants.
In 2023, PSMC’s Board of Directors announced its decision to voluntarily delist from the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). The company cited recurring losses in 2019, 2020, and 2022, a lack of dividends since 2019 (except for 2021), and the historically low share price as reasons.
Despite the delisting, Suzuki Motor Corporation has reiterated its long-standing commitment to the Pakistani market, stating that Pakistan remains one of its most important markets globally and that it will continue to invest.