The federal government is preparing a new Made in Pakistan policy to promote local manufacturing of mobile phones, laptops and other electronic devices.
The proposed policy aims to reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported electronics. It could also provide tax incentives to companies that manufacture electronic products within the country.
Local Production of More Electronic Devices Planned
Under the proposed policy, Pakistan plans to encourage the domestic production of several electronic products.
These could include mobile phones, laptops, signal boosters, dongles and biometric machines.
The policy also covers POS machines, tracking systems and smartwatches. As a result, the government hopes to expand Pakistan’s electronics manufacturing sector beyond mobile phone assembly.
Tax Incentives Proposed for Manufacturers
The proposed policy includes several incentives for local manufacturers.
One proposal would provide tax exemptions on raw materials used to manufacture electronic devices in Pakistan. This could help companies reduce their production costs.
In addition, the government is considering a levy of up to 5% on imported electronic products.
The proposed levy would aim to make locally manufactured products more competitive. However, the final rates and implementation details will depend on the approved policy.
Support for Electronics Manufacturing Facilities
The government also plans to improve access to industrial inputs needed by electronics manufacturers.
Companies could receive support in obtaining raw materials and other production inputs.
Furthermore, the policy aims to facilitate access to heavy machinery. This could help businesses establish new manufacturing facilities and expand existing operations.
Policy Aims to Reduce Electronics Imports
Pakistan currently imports more than $422.3 million worth of electronic devices annually.
The government expects the new policy to help reduce this import burden by increasing local production.
Greater domestic manufacturing could also strengthen Pakistan’s industrial base. In addition, it may create new opportunities in electronics assembly, engineering, supply chains and related industries.
Final Approval Still Pending
The Made in Pakistan policy has already been drafted. However, it has not yet received final approval from the relevant authorities.
As a result, implementation has been delayed.
Once approved, the policy could provide a new framework for expanding Pakistan’s local electronics manufacturing industry and reducing reliance on imported devices.
