TCL and Alcatel Interested in Investing in Pakistan’s Mobile Manufacturing Industry

Pakistan Customs has earned a large amount of PKR 54 billion over the last year on the import of mobile devices through Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking System (DIRBs). Moreover, a customs official has revealed that international tech giants TCL and Alcatel have an interest in investing in Pakistan’s booming movable manufacturing industry.

In collaboration with Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Pakistan Customs introduced DIRBs to subdue the usage of smuggled devices within the country. Clearly, the introduction of this method has been successful, as data released by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) shows that the rise in revenue from mobile imports is essential all the way down to DIRBs.

In fact, this revenue figure represents a large 145 percent increase over the previous year. According to a customs official, the introduction of DIRBs has also attracted considerable investment within the country. Chinese telecom giant TCL is reportedly about to invest in Pakistan’s mobile manufacturing industry with Airlink, while French transportable manufacturer Alcatel (owned by Nokia and TCL) is additionally exploring the chance of entering the Pakistani ecosystem.

The official also saw that a complete of 17 companies are currently manufacturing mobile phones in Pakistan. Back in May, the govt. introduced a mobile manufacturing policy to spice up the local handset industry. Under the policy, the government will give a three percent allowance to local manufacturers for exports of mobile phones and locally-assembled sets are exempted from 4pc withholding on domestic sales. The policy has contributed immensely towards increasing local demand for smartphones. Related industries like packaging, plastics, and IT software have also gained a stronger presence within the local space.