In a major step toward Pakistan’s digital transformation, Google and Pakistan Team Up, as they have jointly launched the country’s first Chromebook Assembly Line, marking a new chapter in local technology production and education.
The inauguration took place at the Prime Minister’s House Auditorium, led by Deputy Prime Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, and attended by senior government officials and tech leaders. The collaboration involves the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication (MOITT), Ministry of Defence Production (MoDP), Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), Tech Valley, and Google.
Key Attendees
The ceremony was attended by Federal Ministers Muhammad Aurangzeb (Finance), Ahsan Iqbal (Planning), Shaza Fatima Khawaja (IT & Telecom), Raza Hayat Harraj (Defence Production), and Qaiser Sheikh (Board of Investment), along with Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat and Sindh IT Minister Ali Rashid.
Representatives from the U.S. Embassy, Google, Tech Valley, Allied Australia, NRTC, and SIFC were also present.
Local Assembly to Power Digital Growth
The new assembly line, based at NRTC’s Haripur facility, is expected to produce up to 500,000 Chromebooks annually by 2026. These devices will be affordable, secure, and designed specifically for education and public sector use.
This project marks a major shift from software development to local hardware production, empowering Pakistan’s growing youth population—64% of whom are under 30—with modern digital tools. It also builds on Google’s existing programs that have already trained over 1 million Pakistanis in digital skills.
The initiative will create jobs, train local technicians, and support the government’s goal of building a digitally inclusive and AI-ready Pakistan.
Google Strengthens Its Presence in Pakistan
Alongside the assembly line, Google announced plans to expand its local operations in Pakistan. The move will help local businesses grow, access global markets, and strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said:
“This partnership is a proud moment for Pakistan. It reflects Google’s trust in our digital potential and our government’s vision of a ‘Digital Nation Pakistan’. Together, we’re empowering our youth with digital tools and creating equal opportunities for all.”
Minister for IT & Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja added:
“Today’s milestone combines education, technology, and manufacturing. Locally assembled Chromebooks will help digitize classrooms, expand AI-based learning, and build our domestic tech industry.”
Minister for Defence Production Raza Hayat Harraj highlighted NRTC’s role:
“NRTC has worked tirelessly to establish Pakistan’s first Chromebook assembly line. This collaboration will not only strengthen local manufacturing but also create new job opportunities and bridge the digital divide.”
Google’s Country Director Farhan Qureshi said:
“We’re investing in people, skills, and innovation to help unlock Pakistan’s digital potential. Our growing presence will foster collaboration and open new doors for economic growth.”
A Step Toward a Digital Future
Experts believe Pakistan’s growing tech ecosystem could add USD 6.6 billion (PKR 1.8 trillion) in digital exports by 2030. The Chromebook Assembly Line and Google’s expanded local office are key steps toward that goal, ensuring Pakistan’s youth are equipped with the skills and tools to thrive in the global digital economy.
The project directly supports the Prime Minister’s “Digital Nation Pakistan” Vision and the National AI Policy, reaffirming that Pakistan is open for innovation, technology, and global investment.