Pakistan’s mobile phone industry is experiencing a significant boom, with plans to export smartphones worth $500 million in the next two years and an ambitious target of $5 billion in the next five years, according to the Federal Minister of IT and Telecom, Dr Umar Saif.

The announcement was made during the Pakistan Mobile Summit 2024, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of IT and Telecom and mobile phone manufacturers.

Dr Umar Saif, speaking at the summit, drew parallels with neighbouring India, which currently exports mobile phones worth $10 billion annually.

He expressed confidence in enhancing Pakistan’s presence in the global mobile phone market and outlined steps being taken to boost smartphone exports manufactured within the country.

During the summit, the minister disclosed that 35 companies have been licenced to assemble smartphones of different brands.

Furthermore, a comprehensive policy is in the works to facilitate the local production of complete phones and some of their components.

This initiative is expected to not only strengthen the local industry but also contribute significantly to Pakistan’s standing in the international mobile phone market.

Dr Saif highlighted the progress made so far, indicating that approximately 90 million mobile phones have been assembled in Pakistan over the past two years.

Additionally, the country has successfully exported around 250,000 mobile phones, amounting to a value of $15 million. These figures showcase the growing capabilities of Pakistan’s mobile phone manufacturing sector.

The minister emphasised the need for sustained efforts to capitalise on the industry’s potential and underscored the importance of innovation and competitiveness to further enhance Pakistan’s share in the global market.

As the country moves forward, there is a concerted push to not only meet but surpass the set export targets, contributing significantly to the national economy and establishing Pakistan as a key player in the international mobile phone industry.

The success and growth of the mobile phone industry align with the government’s broader vision for economic development and technological advancement, showcasing Pakistan as a competitive player in the global digital landscape.