Pakistan's bicycle production is under immense pressure from significant overcapacity. Total output in 2011 dropped by over 25% compared to 2010, reaching 284,865 units. The Pakistani bicycle industry had produced 449,400 units as recently as 2006, while the annual production capacity stands at 1.45 million units.
The decline in bicycle production is due to the gradual shift in Pakistan from bicycles to motorcycles. According to local retailers, even for short trips, people prefer lightweight motorcycles over bicycles. Retailers claim that the massive smuggling of ultra-cheap Chinese-made bicycles is another reason for the drop in production. They urge the government to take appropriate measures to preserve the domestic bicycle industry.
Although Pakistan is still considered an important bicycle manufacturer, its per capita usage is very low compared to countries like China and India. However, 20 years ago, it was common for every household to own at least one bicycle. At that time, children rode bicycles to school, and they were also used to transport a variety of goods. Over the past decade, people have shifted to using motorcycles.
This has led to a sharp decline in bicycle demand across the country, ultimately resulting in a rapid drop in bicycle production, especially over the past ten years.
Although Pakistan is still considered an important bicycle manufacturer, its per capita usage is very low compared to countries like China and India. However, 20 years ago, it was common for every household to own at least one bicycle. At that time, children rode bicycles to school, and they were also used to transport a variety of goods. Over the past decade, people have shifted to using motorcycles.
This has led to a sharp decline in bicycle demand across the country, ultimately resulting in a rapid drop in bicycle production, especially over the past ten years.