The country’s first semiconductor policy has been finalized. Chips used in all electronic devices will now be manufactured locally, with attractive incentives for investors as part of the policy.
Projects such as smart chips for national ID cards and passports will be initiated. Investors in semiconductor design and research will receive financial support.
According to the document, companies engaged in semiconductor manufacturing will receive grants and incentives. There will be exemptions on duties for equipment and machinery required for semiconductor production. A National Semiconductor Fund of 10 billion PKR will be established.
A centralized system will simplify government processes for new and existing companies. A national record will be set up to secure intellectual property (IP). Under the policy, startups will be eligible for grants of up to 10 million PKR per startup.
The document states that semiconductor company registration will be made easier, and fees will be reduced. By 2030, 30,000 individuals will be trained in the semiconductor sector, and by 2030, 55 startups will be promoted, increasing to 70 startups by 2045.
Additionally, over six years, assistance will be provided to establish 10 foreign chip design centers. The target is to achieve 5% local chip design by 2030 and 15% by 2035.