Pakistan is continuing its push to strengthen local electronics manufacturing, with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) allowing 37 mobile phone companies to manufacture or assemble mobile devices within the country. The move is expected to boost local production, create jobs, and reduce dependence on imported handsets.
Pakistan’s Growing Mobile Manufacturing Industry
According to the PTA, around 37 companies have received permission to manufacture or assemble mobile phones in Pakistan. Approximately 26 million mobile phones are currently assembled locally, while only a small share of devices is imported.
The country has attracted several major smartphone brands, including Samsung, Xiaomi, Tecno, Oppo, Vivo, Infinix, Redmi, Realme, Nokia, and Honor, all of which have established local manufacturing or assembly operations.
Why Is Pakistan Promoting Local Manufacturing?
The government aims to:
- Reduce dependence on imported mobile phones
- Create employment opportunities
- Attract foreign investment
- Increase technology transfer
- Support exports of locally manufactured devices
- Strengthen Pakistan’s electronics industry
These goals are part of the proposed Mobile & Electronic Devices Manufacturing Policy 2026–33, which focuses on expanding domestic production and increasing local value addition.
Benefits for Consumers
Expanding local manufacturing could offer several advantages:
- Better availability of smartphones
- Faster access to new device models
- Potentially lower production costs
- Improved after-sales service and spare parts availability
- Increased competition among manufacturers
However, retail prices will still depend on taxes, import duties on components, exchange rates, and global supply chains.
Conclusion
Allowing 37 companies to manufacture mobile phones locally marks another step in Pakistan’s effort to expand its electronics industry. With millions of devices already being assembled domestically and a new policy focused on localization and exports, the country is seeking to build a stronger manufacturing ecosystem while reducing reliance on imports.
FAQs
Q: How many companies are allowed to manufacture mobile phones in Pakistan?
A: The PTA has permitted 37 companies to manufacture or assemble mobile phones in Pakistan.
Q: How many mobile phones are assembled locally?
A: Around 26 million mobile phones are currently assembled in Pakistan.
Q: Which major brands manufacture phones in Pakistan?
A: Brands with local manufacturing or assembly include Samsung, Xiaomi, Tecno, Oppo, Vivo, Infinix, Redmi, Realme, Nokia, and Honor.
Q: Why is Pakistan encouraging local mobile manufacturing?
A: The government aims to create jobs, attract investment, reduce imports, promote technology transfer, and increase exports.
