Airlink Communication Limited’s CEO, Mr. Muzzaffar Hayat Piracha, engaged in a direct discussion with Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Mr. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, regarding the mobile phone industry’s landscape and export prospects.
Expressing avid interest in the mobile phone sector’s expansion, the Prime Minister requested a thorough strategy to realize this objective.
Assuring full cooperation, Mr. Piracha pledged to deliver a comprehensive plan and sought the Prime Minister’s assistance in fostering an environment conducive to industry growth.
Mr. Piracha underscored Pakistan’s potential as a mobile phone export hub, projecting a minimum export yield of $10 to $15 billion over the next four years.
In response, the Prime Minister affirmed the government’s unwavering support and underscored the industry’s pivotal role in Pakistan’s economic advancement, particularly in job creation and export augmentation.
The mobile phone industry in Pakistan has witnessed rapid growth, attracting investments from both local and international players. Notably, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has granted Mobile Device Manufacturing (MDM) authorization to 26 companies, including prominent brands like Samsung, Nokia, Xiaomi, and others. Additionally, AirLink, a major player, is set to introduce Xiaomi TV in June.
The government has implemented various initiatives to bolster the industry, including the Mobile Device Manufacturing Policy launched in 2021, which has already attracted $200 million in local investments.
Moreover, the industry holds the potential to contribute approximately $14 billion to the national exchequer annually if it meets the domestic demand of 36 million units.
Highlighting the industry’s potential, the Engineering Development Board (EDB) organized a summit in 2023, drawing participation from 31 local manufacturers and renowned brands such as Samsung, Xiaomi, and others.
As Pakistan endeavors to leverage its mobile phone industry for export growth, collaboration between the government and private sector becomes paramount. With a robust strategy and sustained government backing, Pakistan aims to claim a significant share of the global market, potentially accruing up to $15 billion in exports.
This collaboration not only promises substantial economic gains but also positions Pakistan as a formidable player in the international mobile phone market.
