Policy aims to export 5.25 million units by 2033, build 75,000 skilled workforce and achieve 50% local value addition.
Pakistan has set a target of $2.5 billion in mobile and IT equipment exports by 2033 under a new device and electronics manufacturing policy aimed at shifting the industry from assembly to full-scale manufacturing, The Express Tribune reported.
Under official projections, the government expects exports of 21.6 million mobile phones over the next seven years. Annual shipments are projected to begin at 0.16 million units in 2027, increase to 1.82 million units in 2028 and reach 5.25 million units by 2033.
Export proceeds are estimated at $612.69 million in 2033, while cumulative exports over the seven-year period are projected at $2,528 million.
The policy outlines human capital development as a key pillar, with a target of training 75,000 skilled workers by 2033 to support manufacturing and attract global brands. Officials say strengthening local skills will help expand supply chains and improve competitiveness.
Domestic value addition is targeted to reach 50% by 2033, with interim benchmarks of 5.3% by 2027 and 23.5% by 2030. The plan also includes the establishment of 10 model surface-mounted technology and component manufacturing plants by 2033 to support printed circuit board assembly and other inputs.
The government aims to raise formal e-waste recycling to 70% by 2033, starting from 10% in 2027, as part of efforts to align with sustainability standards.
International outreach forms part of the strategy, with plans to participate in 26 global exhibitions over the next seven years and expand exports to emerging markets.
The policy also sets phased localisation requirements for mobile phone components, with penalties for non-compliance. Packing materials such as boxes, stickers and booklets must be localised by July 1, 2026.
Manufacturers will be required to localise chargers, USB cables and hands-free devices within six months of policy implementation. Displays for feature phones must be localised within 18 months, while batteries and plastic components will be subject to a 24-month deadline.
Smartphone displays have a 30-month compliance window. The government has said that incentives and duty concessions will be withdrawn if manufacturers fail to meet the localisation timelines.
