PTA Blocks 826,000 Stolen Phones as Local Mobile Manufacturing Surges in Pakistan

By the first five months of 2025 alone, 12.05 million handsets had already been produced.

By DTD- On Jul 24, 2025

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked 826,000 stolen mobile devices using its Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS), further strengthening efforts to secure local telecom networks. In addition, the PTA identified and blocked 55 million counterfeit or unauthorized mobile phones to prevent the use of substandard devices.

Since the launch of the local manufacturing initiative in 2019, Pakistan has produced or assembled 136 million mobile handsets, with 37% being smartphones. The local mobile phone industry has experienced steady growth, with annual production increasing from 11.74 million units in 2019 to a peak of 31.38 million in 2024 — a 47% jump compared to the previous year. Although there was a slight dip in 2023, the upward trend resumed strongly in 2024. By the first five months of 2025 alone, 12.05 million handsets had already been produced.

This shift has dramatically reduced Pakistan’s reliance on imported devices. Local production now meets over 94% of national mobile phone demand. Commercial mobile imports have plummeted from 16.28 million units in 2019 to just 0.76 million units in the first five months of 2025.

The growth of local mobile manufacturing has also contributed to economic development. A total of 36 mobile device manufacturing facilities have been established across the country, creating approximately 60,000 jobs. According to PTA data, the Government of Pakistan has received Rs. 83.04 billion in revenue under individual import categories from January 2019 to June 2025.

In 2024, mobile device manufacturers (MDMs) were responsible for 59% of the total smartphone production, reflecting increased investment and participation in domestic production infrastructure.

The success of DIRBS and the expansion of the local manufacturing sector demonstrate Pakistan’s commitment to digital security, economic growth, and technological self-reliance.