Government Proposes Gradual Phase-Out of Locally Manufactured 2G Feature Phones
ISLAMABAD
Pakistan’s mobile phone manufacturing industry has voiced strong opposition to a proposed government policy that seeks to gradually phase out the local production of 2G feature phones, warning that the move could undermine investment, employment and affordable connectivity for millions of low-income users.
The proposed policy includes a controversial provision aimed at ending the domestic manufacturing of 2G feature phones in phases, prompting concerns across the industry over its potential economic and social impact.
Industry stakeholders argue that the decision could reduce access to low-cost mobile devices for millions of Pakistanis, particularly workers and consumers in lower-income segments who continue to rely on basic handsets for communication.
The Pakistan Mobile Phone Manufacturers Association (PMPMA) warned that discontinuing the production of 2G phones would disproportionately affect daily wage earners, farmers, drivers and security guards, many of whom depend on affordable feature phones due to economic constraints.
PMPMA Chairman Haji Abdul Rehman described the proposal as a setback to Pakistan’s “Made in Pakistan” vision and broader industrial development goals.
He said the local mobile manufacturing sector has attracted significant investment in recent years and played an important role in creating jobs, boosting domestic production and reducing reliance on imports.
The association cautioned that forcing a rapid transition away from 2G devices could disrupt the local manufacturing ecosystem and place additional pressure on consumers who may not be able to afford smartphones.
Industry representatives have urged the government to immediately review and reconsider Clause 7.1 of the proposed policy, which they describe as controversial and potentially damaging to the growth of Pakistan’s mobile manufacturing industry.
The debate comes as policymakers seek to accelerate digital adoption and smartphone penetration while balancing the need for affordable access to communication services for underserved segments of the population.
