Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to meet Apple CEO John Ternus in the United States. The meeting could focus on Apple’s potential entry into Pakistan.
The meeting is likely to take place during Shehbaz Sharif’s expected visit to Washington. The prime minister is expected to hold several high-level meetings during the visit.
The development was shared by the Engineering Development Board (EDB) CEO. He spoke during a briefing before the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication.
The official said Pakistan has 37 companies currently manufacturing mobile phones locally. These companies have produced more than 35 million handsets so far.
The government is seeking to further expand the country’s mobile manufacturing sector. It also wants major global smartphone companies to establish operations in Pakistan.
Apple is currently the only major smartphone company without local manufacturing operations in Pakistan. Authorities are therefore trying to attract the company to the country.
The EDB CEO said the proposed meeting could support these efforts. Discussions may explore the possibility of Apple establishing manufacturing or assembly operations.
A potential Apple entry could strengthen Pakistan’s technology and manufacturing sectors. It could also create new opportunities for local businesses and skilled workers.
However, no agreement has been announced regarding Apple’s operations in Pakistan. The proposed meeting is currently part of the government’s efforts to attract investment.
The National Assembly committee also discussed the progress of local mobile phone manufacturing. Members welcomed the growth of domestic production in recent years.
The committee chairman stressed the need for further expansion. He said Pakistan should increase the number of phones manufactured locally.
He also highlighted the importance of affordability and quality. Locally produced smartphones should meet consumer expectations while remaining reasonably priced.
The chairman also called for greater production of 4G and 5G devices. He said the industry should move away from older 3G technology.
The focus on newer mobile technologies reflects the changing needs of consumers. It also supports Pakistan’s broader efforts to develop its digital infrastructure.
For Shehbaz Sharif, attracting major technology companies could support these goals. A meeting with Apple’s leadership could open discussions about possible future investment.
Apple’s potential entry would also represent a major development for Pakistan’s smartphone industry. The company has a significant global presence and a large international supply chain.
The government has not yet provided details about possible investment terms. Further information could emerge if discussions take place during the US visit.
For now, the planned engagement remains focused on exploring opportunities. The government hopes international participation will help expand local mobile phone manufacturing.
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The meeting between Shehbaz Sharif and John Ternus could therefore become an important step. It may provide a platform to discuss Apple’s possible manufacturing or assembly presence in Pakistan.
