Assembly line to churn out 0.5m Chromebooks a year
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan remains committed to building a digitally inclusive and AI-ready Pakistan, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said on Tuesday as he inaugurated the Chromebook Assembly Line.
The new assembly line, located at the National Radio & Telecommunications Corporation’s (NRTC) Haripur facility, will produce up to 500,000 Chromebooks annually.
These devices will be high-quality, secure, and affordable, and tailored specifically for educational and public sector use.
Google has unveiled plans to deepen its local presence to provide on-the-ground support to Pakistani businesses, helping them scale their operations and reach global markets.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr Dar said the ‘Digital Nation Pakistan’ vision “reflects our resolve to empower our youth with digital skills, equip them with modern tools, and ensure equal access to opportunities”.
Dar hails Google’s move to expand its footprint in Pakistan
He said that Google’s decision to strengthen its local presence in Pakistan is not merely symbolic; it was a moment of national pride and a powerful endorsement of Pakistan’s digital potential.
Speaking at the ceremony, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted the importance of developing domestic hardware alongside software capabilities to empower youth with the skills and tools needed to compete globally while strengthening Pakistan’s technological sovereignty.
“This initiative advances our goal of a future-forward, AI-enabled digital nation, bringing together education, technology, and manufacturing. Locally assembled, affordable Chromebooks will help digitise classrooms, expand access to AI-powered learning, and support the national Digital Pakistan and AI Policy.” she added.
Google Pakistan Country Director Farhan Qureshi said that Pakistan has vast potential, and Google could help build an inclusive digital future in this AI-powered economy. He added that Google is working towards a stronger local presence in Pakistan — one that will serve as a hub for innovation, partnerships, and economic opportunity.
Published in Dawn, November 5th, 2025