HULUNBUIR, Oct 28 (APP): A used-car export hub in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of northern China, is exploring opportunities in Pakistan and other South Asian markets as demand for Chinese vehicles expands overseas, with new energy vehicles (NEVs) gaining momentum in its established Russian market.
Xiao Song, CEO of the privately operated Hulunbuir Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Used Car Export Base, said the company was looking to expand into Central Asia and South Asia while continuing to strengthen its business in Russia, its principal overseas market.
Song said that the company exported more than 1,300 vehicles through its own operations from January to September 2026, while also providing logistics, customs clearance and other services to exporters from across China, China Economic Net reported.
Xiao said the base obtained used-car export qualifications in early 2024, becoming one of the first approved export entities in the region. It has since developed an integrated domestic and international trade park covering approximately 760,000 square meters, with vehicle display, inspection, preparation, sales and export facilities.
Xiao stated that Russia remains its main overseas destination, with Mongolia serving as another market. The company has also served customers from Iran and exported a vehicle to Ethiopia this year as it prepares to broaden its international reach.
A notable shift has taken place in the types of vehicles being exported. According to Xiao, the company’s export mix has recently shifted from predominantly conventional fuel-powered cars to approximately 80 percent NEVs and 20 percent fuel-powered vehicles, reflecting a surge in demand for Chinese electric vehicles among Russian buyers.
He said orders for some Chinese electric models had increased sharply, with supply constraints at manufacturers delaying deliveries. The company is also exploring the possibility of establishing charging facilities and service networks in Russia to support the growing number of Chinese NEVs on the road.
To improve efficiency, the base has integrated vehicle transfer procedures, export documentation, licensing, customs clearance and logistics into a one-stop service. Xiao said some vehicles could reach Russian destinations in around five days, depending on the route and transport arrangements.
The company also settles transactions in Chinese yuan (RMB), allowing it and its overseas customers to agree on prices in a single currency and reduce exposure to exchange-rate fluctuations.
Pakistan is among the potential markets under consideration. During a discussion about exporting Chinese vehicles to Pakistan, Xiao and other participants examined Chinese SUVs, including models from Haval, a brand of Great Wall Motor that has established a presence in the Pakistani market.
Xiao said the company was interested in exploring opportunities in South Asia, although exporting used vehicles to Pakistan would require suitable re-export or transit arrangements under the current framework. Potential shipments would also need to comply with Pakistan’s vehicle-import regulations, including applicable age restrictions, engine-displacement-based duties and other taxes.
“For Pakistani importers, Chinese vehicles offer an opportunity to explore a wider range of models and price points. However, the commercial viability of importing used cars will depend on prevailing customs rules, vehicle eligibility, duties and transportation costs”, he said.
As Pakistan explores opportunities in electric mobility and transport-sector investment, closer links with Chinese vehicle exporters could create scope for business-to-business cooperation, subject to regulatory requirements and market demand.
The Hulunbuir base is also upgrading its online platform and digital customer services as it works toward serving more international markets by 2027. Its experience illustrates how China’s used-car export industry is moving beyond domestic vehicle circulation toward integrated international trade, with electric vehicles and cross-border logistics becoming increasingly important parts of the business.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
