New Policy for 2026–2033 Ready for Approval
Pakistan has finalised its Mobile and Electronic Device Manufacturing Policy for the period 2026–2033, laying the groundwork for a major shift in how the country produces phones, laptops and other electronic devices. Officials said the policy will soon be presented to the prime minister for formal approval.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan said the framework was developed after extensive consultations with local manufacturers, global brands, industry associations and regulators. The goal, he explained, is to move beyond short-term incentives and provide a long-term, stable roadmap for the sector’s growth.
The policy covers mobile phones, laptops and a broad range of electronic devices. It is designed to give both international and domestic players clarity on taxes, localisation expectations and export-support measures over the next seven years.
From Assembly Lines to Real Manufacturing
For years, Pakistan’s electronics sector has largely focused on assembly, with imported kits and components put together in local facilities. While this model created some jobs and helped bring affordable devices to the market, it did not build deep technical capacity or strong links into global value chains.
SAPM Haroon Akhtar Khan said the new policy clearly defines phase-wise manufacturing targets and timelines that push companies to progress beyond simple assembly. The intention is to develop capabilities such as local component production, printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), testing, design support and eventually more advanced processes.
He noted that Pakistan is at a critical stage in its transition from assembly to manufacturing. Sustained economic growth, he argued, is closely tied to building local manufacturing strength and integrating Pakistan into regional and global supply networks for electronics.
Targets for Localisation, E-Waste Recovery and Skilled Workers
According to the Engineering Development Board, the policy sets a clear localisation target: by 2033, at least 50 percent of the value in mobile phone manufacturing should come from local inputs. This means more parts, sub-assemblies and services will need to be sourced from within Pakistan rather than fully imported.
The framework also focuses on environmental sustainability. It aims to achieve 70 percent e-waste recovery through organised systems, so that discarded devices are collected, recycled and processed safely instead of ending up in landfills or the informal scrap market. This will require investment in formal recycling facilities and clear rules for manufacturers and distributors.
Human resource development is another core pillar. The policy targets the creation of 50,000 skilled workers for the electronics manufacturing ecosystem, including 15,000 specialised professionals such as engineers, technicians, designers and quality-control experts. Training partnerships with universities, technical institutes and industry are expected to play a key role in meeting these goals.
Boosting Exports and Attracting Global Brands
The policy aims to promote domestic manufacturing not only for the local market but also for exports. By giving confidence to international brands to set up production lines in Pakistan, the government hopes to position the country as a competitive base for serving regional markets in Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
At the same time, the framework is designed to help local brands move up the value chain. With clearer rules on local content, incentives and standards, home-grown companies will have a better chance to expand their capacity, improve product quality and explore export opportunities of their own.
Officials believe that if the policy is implemented consistently, it can support higher value-added exports, reduce the electronics import bill and generate better-paying jobs. Over time, a stronger electronics manufacturing base could also support related industries such as components, packaging, logistics and after-sales services.
Why the Shift Matters for Pakistan’s Economy
Economists have long argued that Pakistan needs to move beyond traditional low-value sectors and expand into higher value manufacturing to achieve durable growth. The Mobile and Electronic Device Manufacturing Policy 2026–2033 is an attempt to answer that challenge in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.
If the targets on localisation, e-waste recovery and skills are met, Pakistan could gradually reduce its dependence on imported gadgets, create a more resilient supply base and open new export channels. For consumers, a stronger local electronics industry could eventually mean better choice, more reliable after-sales support and improved product quality.
For now, the policy’s success will depend on timely approval, consistent implementation and a stable business environment. But it signals a clear intent: to move Pakistan from being mainly an assembly market to becoming a serious electronics manufacturing hub over the coming decade.
