Margalla Heavy Industries Limited, a military-owned Pakistani firm, has signed a $2.25 billion agreement with Chinese partners and local investors to set up a lithium-ion battery manufacturing plant in Rawalpindi.
The plant is due to become a key addition to Pakistan's expanding electric-mobility and energy-storage market, focusing on batteries for electric vehicles, storage systems and other modern technologies.
Reports indicate that production could start six to eight months after the government approves a national battery manufacturing policy, making the timeline dependent on that policy framework and related approvals.
The facility aims for an annual output of over 1,000 megawatts, with an initial phase targeting 200-300 MW before scaling up to the larger capacity.
The deal brings together Chinese partners and Pakistani investors, combining international and domestic participation and potentially reducing reliance on imported batteries.
The project aligns with Pakistan's push to grow its electric-vehicle ecosystem and promote new-energy technologies, offering a domestic source for the rising battery demand.
Commercial production will still hinge on government clearance of the proposed battery manufacturing policy.
If the plan proceeds, the Rawalpindi plant could play a significant role in Pakistan's emerging battery sector, with its large projected capacity enabling substantial expansion beyond the early stage.
