Hassan Khan
Pakistan to Produce Affordable Google Chromebooks Locally
Pakistan’s government has officially revealed a major technology initiative: a Google Chromebook assembly plan that is expected to cut costs of digital devices for students and industries while boosting the country’s tech economy.
The announcement was made during a ceremony in Islamabad, where Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar called the initiative a step toward building a digitally strong Pakistan. While it is being referred to as a “launch,” the plan is still in the development phase but the expectations are big.
What the Assembly Line Means for Pakistan
The new production line will be set up at the NRTC (National Radio & Telecommunications Corporation) facility in Haripur.
Key Targets
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Up to 500,000 Chromebooks annually by 2026
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Devices specially made for students and public institutions
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Lower retail prices compared to imported laptops
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Boost to local manufacturing and supply chain networks
This move directly supports:
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Digital Pakistan Vision
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National AI Strategy
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EdTech Transformation Goals
Economic & Social Benefits
The government believes the project will:
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Create hundreds of direct jobs and thousands of indirect opportunities
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Help Pakistan move toward technology exports in the future
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Reduce dependency on imported laptops
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Provide affordable and secure computers to schools and universities
Example:
A basic Chromebook imported today can cost around Rs. 55,000 to 75,000. Local assembly could potentially cut prices by 20 to 35%, making technology more accessible for families who can’t afford expensive laptops.
Google to Train 100,000 Pakistani Developers
Under the new MoU:
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Google will train 100,000 software developers across Pakistan
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Training programs will include AI, cloud computing, and Android development
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Local startups will receive support and improved access to global marketplaces
This could open doors for more Pakistani freelancers and IT companies to work with international clients and tech ecosystems.
A Foundation for the Future
Ishaq Dar emphasized that this initiative is not just about laptops it’s about transforming Pakistan into a regional technology hub.
He also mentioned that the government is working on:
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Tax rationalization policies
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Better business conditions for global tech companies
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Incentives for electronics manufacturing investments
“We want to build a Pakistan that not only uses technology but also creates it,” Dar said during the ceremony.
Conclusion
Pakistan has announced plans to establish its first Google Chromebook assembly line at NRTC Haripur to produce affordable laptops for students and public institutions by 2026.
The initiative supports Pakistan’s Digital Nation Vision, aims to boost local manufacturing, jobs, and tech exports.
As part of the MoU, Google will also train 100,000 developers and collaborate on AI-powered local solutions in Pakistan.
