The federal government has decided to ban the import of used mobile phones as part of the Mobile and Electronic Devices Manufacturing Policy 2026–33, a major step aimed at boosting local production and reducing dependency on imports.

The policy, developed by the Engineering Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with domestic manufacturers, was presented at a high-level meeting chaired by SAPM on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan. Officials said the move is intended to attract global brands and position Pakistan as a regional hub for mobile manufacturing and exports.

Under the new framework, incentives will prioritize local assembly and phased localization of components rather than complete imports. The ban on used mobile phones is expected to strengthen domestic manufacturing, create new jobs, and improve quality control across the sector.

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The policy outlines component requirements for assembly, introduces performance-linked penalties, and proposes government-run testing laboratories to ensure products meet international standards. To prevent under-invoicing, both imported and locally manufactured phones may be included under the Third Schedule of sales tax.

Officials highlighted that the move aligns with Pakistan’s broader goal of export-led growth, following successful manufacturing models seen in countries such as India and Vietnam. Several leading global brands have already expressed interest in investing under this new policy.

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Strict compliance will be enforced, with penalties and licence suspensions for violators. Authorities emphasized that the ban on used mobile phone imports is designed to stabilize the market, encourage long-term industrial growth, and provide a boost to Pakistan’s technology sector.