In a major push to reduce the country’s import bill, the government has finalized a ‘Made in Pakistan’ electronics manufacturing policy, under which mobile phones, laptops, and other electronic devices will now be produced locally.
According to documents obtained by Samaa TV, the government’s efforts to reduce imports are entering a new phase with a strong focus on local manufacturing.
The policy is designed to cut reliance on imported electronic goods while strengthening domestic industry. Under the proposed policy, mobile phones, computers, laptops, tablets, signal boosters, and dongles will be manufactured in Pakistan.
The document also confirms that biometric machines, POS machines, tracking systems, and smartwatches will be included in local production plans.
Saving dollars, securing data
The policy notes that local manufacturing will not only help secure sensitive data but also save millions of dollars in foreign exchange. Currently, electronic devices worth more than $422.3 million are imported into Pakistan every year.
To encourage local manufacturing, the government has proposed imposing a levy of 1 to 5 percent on imported finished electronic goods.
Proposed levy
The document suggests a 1% levy on devices worth up to $30, 2% on devices worth up to $100, 3% on items up to $300, and 5% on devices priced up to $500.
In addition, the policy proposes a 5% levy on imported electronic devices valued between $500 and $700. Officials believe this measure will discourage imports of finished goods and shift demand toward locally assembled products.
Tax exemptions to support local manufacturing
To further boost domestic production, the policy recommends tax exemptions on the import of raw materials used for manufacturing electronic devices in Pakistan. This incentive is aimed at lowering production costs and attracting investment in the electronics sector.
According to estimates in the document, the government is expected to earn Rs104 billion over seven years through the implementation of this policy.
The price of locally manufactured electronic devices is also projected to fall by up to 70% within seven years, making technology more affordable for consumers.
Long-term impact
Officials believe the ‘Made in Pakistan’ electronics policy will strengthen the local industrial base, create jobs, and reduce dependence on imports.
If implemented effectively, the policy could mark a major shift in Pakistan’s electronics manufacturing landscape.
