Google and Pakistan Launch Chromebook Assembly Line to Drive Digital Transformation
Google and the government of Pakistan have taken a significant step forward in accelerating the country’s digital transformation. This initiative, part of the broader vision for a Future Forward Pakistan, includes the launch of the first Chromebook assembly line in the country. The announcement was made during a high-level ceremony at the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad, where key officials and Google representatives gathered to celebrate this milestone.
The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, alongside Google’s regional leadership. This collaboration highlights the growing partnership between the tech giant and Pakistani authorities in driving innovation and economic growth through technology.
Local Production of Chromebooks to Boost Digital Economy
In partnership with Tech Valley, Allied, and the National Radio and Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC), Google launched Pakistan’s first Chromebook assembly line at NRTC’s facility in Haripur. This initiative is expected to assemble 500,000 Chromebooks by 2026, creating local jobs and strengthening the digital economy. The production of these devices will not only meet domestic demand but also open doors for exports, positioning Pakistan as a potential hardware exporter.
Farhan Qureshi, Country Director, Google Pakistan, emphasized the importance of this move. He stated that the local production of Chromebooks with partners like Allied, NRTC, and Tech Valley marks a critical step in supporting Pakistan’s digital transformation. “By delivering ‘Made-in-Pakistan’ Chromebooks, we are providing high-quality, safe, affordable devices that build on our robust digital skilling programs for teachers, students, developers, and creators,” he said.
Qureshi added that this initiative could help narrow the digital skills gap and contribute up to PKR 2.8 trillion to Pakistan’s annual GDP by 2030. The focus on digital education and technology adoption is seen as a crucial driver for long-term economic growth.
Empowering Youth Through Affordable Digital Tools
Umar Farooq, Founder and CEO of Tech Valley, highlighted the impact of this initiative on youth empowerment. “Our mission is to unlock opportunity for every young person in Pakistan. Locally assembling these affordable devices means we can finally scale access to high-quality digital education,” he said.
He further explained that this effort goes beyond just connecting children to the internet. “It’s about putting them on a direct path to meaningful employment and empowering them to build a stronger national economy from the ground up.” The initiative aligns with broader goals of making digital tools accessible to all, especially in underserved communities.
Collaboration with MoITT to Advance AI and Digital Growth
Alongside the Chromebook launch, the Ministry of Information and Technology (MoITT) and Google signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to drive the next phase of Pakistan’s digital and AI-powered growth. This agreement aims to foster innovation, enhance digital infrastructure, and support the development of AI-driven solutions across various sectors.
This partnership underscores the shared vision of leveraging technology to create a more connected and competitive Pakistan. With increased investment in digital skills and infrastructure, the country is well-positioned to benefit from the global shift toward digital economies.
Benefits of the Initiative
- Job Creation: The assembly line will generate thousands of local jobs, contributing to economic stability.
- Digital Skills Development: Enhanced access to digital tools and training will improve the skill set of students, educators, and professionals.
- Economic Growth: The production and export of Chromebooks could significantly boost Pakistan’s GDP.
- Tech Innovation: The collaboration with MoITT and other stakeholders will encourage the development of AI and digital solutions tailored to local needs.
Looking Ahead
As Pakistan moves forward with its digital transformation, initiatives like the Chromebook assembly line serve as a testament to the power of public-private partnerships. By combining resources, expertise, and innovation, the country is taking concrete steps toward building a more inclusive and technologically advanced society.
With continued efforts in digital education, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship, Pakistan is poised to become a key player in the global digital economy.