Business Desk 
Jan 06, 2026
The federal government on Monday announced its plan to impose a ban on the import of used smartphones under the new Mobile and Electronic Devices Manufacturing Policy 2026-33, with an aim to promote local mobile phones in Pakistan.
During a high-level meeting chaired by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, the policy was reviewed, which showed progress and aligns stakeholders on its objectives and implementation framework. In partnership with local mobile phones manufacturers, the Engineering Development Board (EDB) prepared the policy which aims to attract global brands and promote export-led growth through local manufacturing, following models adopted by countries such as India, Vietnam, and Bangladesh.
Addressing the meeting, the special assistant stated that the primary objective of the policy is to generate local employment and sustain Pakistan's industrial base.
What is Mobile and Electronic Devices Manufacturing Policy 2026-33?
Under the Mobile and Electronic Devices Manufacturing Policy 2026-33, mandatory export targets have been marked counterproductive, citing the auto sector as an example. While quality certification is mandatory for exports, it should not be enforced coercively. The policy also calls for the establishment of government-run local testing laboratories.
Mobile phones will need 40 parts per SKD kit, while feature phones will require 15 parts per SKD kit. Valuation rulings are to be institutionalised with participation from EDB, PMPMA, and the Customs valuation directorate.
The policy sets a minimum 30 percent tariff gap between CBU and SKD imports and proposes that the Tax Increment Financing levy may apply to both CBU and SKD imports. It also notes that e-waste management remains a complex issue requiring careful handling.
According to SAPM, the policy will adopt phased localisation to promote foreign investment in high-tech manufacturing and ensure sustainable industrial growth. Special emphasis will be placed on the local manufacturing of key components, including motherboards, PCBs, electronic parts, and display components.
He stressed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have a mission to transform Pakistan into an export base for global brands and integrate the country to into global value chains. Mobile manufacturers informed the meeting that leading international brands, including Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, Nokia, and others, are potential investors under the new policy framework.
The meeting highlighted that growth in the mobile phones sector will benefit other electronic industries and support wider development.
It should be noted that the government will enforce strict compliance under the policy, as incentives will be withdrawn, and penalties imposed in cases of violations related to localisation targets, reporting requirements, or operational obligations. In cases of non-compliance, mobile phones manufacturers may face suspension of import licences and financial penalties.
