Pakistan’s reliance on imported mobile phones has increased further during the current fiscal year, with a significant rise recorded in overall import volumes.
According to official documents, Pakistan imported mobile phones worth Rs 455.73 billion during the first 10 months of the fiscal year. This represents a 30.29% increase compared to the same period last year, when imports stood at Rs 349.77 billion.
The data shows that in April 2026 alone, mobile phone imports rose sharply on both annual and monthly bases. On a yearly comparison, imports increased by 40.71%, while on a monthly basis, April recorded an 18.70% rise compared to March 2026.
In April 2026, Pakistan imported mobile phones worth Rs 49.41 billion, whereas in March 2026 the figure was Rs 41.63 billion. In April 2025, imports were recorded at Rs 35.12 billion.
Officials said the continued rise reflects growing demand for mobile devices across the country, driven by increased smartphone usage, expanding digital connectivity, and dependence on imported technology.
Analysts note that Pakistan’s mobile phone market remains heavily import-dependent despite efforts to encourage local assembly and manufacturing. They say that while local production has increased in recent years, demand for advanced smartphones still relies largely on foreign brands.
Economists further suggest that rising import bills in this sector contribute to pressure on the country’s overall trade deficit, making it important to boost domestic production capacity and encourage technology transfer.
The report highlights a consistent upward trend in mobile phone imports throughout the year, indicating strong consumer demand and continued expansion of the digital economy in Pakistan.
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