Pak firm to launch Chinese SUV brand during current fiscal year

ISLAMABAD, Nov. 24 (Gwadar Pro) - The Karachi-based auto manufacturer, Ghandara Nissan Ltd., will roll out passenger cars of Chinese brand Cherry during the ongoing fiscal year, the firm said in a stock filing today.

Ghandara Nissan disclosed in February that it had entered into an agreement with Cherry Int’l Corp., Wuhu, China for manufacturing and distribution of Cherry passenger cars (SUVs and crossovers) in Pakistan. In the fresh announcement, the company said that it was currently upgrading and modernizing its manufacturing plant together with establishing a nationwide dealership network for the launch of Cherry SUVs. According to the company, they are also engaged in supply chain management and marketing activities for the purpose.

In July, the firm sought applications from interested investors for 3S (sales, services and spare parts) dealership across the country. The company said that it was strengthening and expanding its dealership network keeping in view the demand of the customers. However, market analysts said it indicated that the company was preparing to launch the Cherry SUVs earlier than expected.

Ghandara Nissan also produces vehicles of Chinese brands JAC and Dongfeng.

The company has not yet specified the Cherry product line it’s going to launch in Pakistan and has earlier rubbished speculations in this regard.

After approval of Automotive Development Policy 2016-21 by the government of Pakistan, several local firms have formed joint ventures with prominent Chinese companies for distribution and manufacturing of their vehicle brands in Pakistan. This has not only provided Pakistani people with a vast variety of passenger vehicles to choose from, but has also created thousands of employment opportunities for local people.