We Rent the Intelligence. We Keep the Risk.
September 14, 2026
Apple appoints Salman Dar to lead government affairs in Pakistan as Islamabad seeks local iPhone manufacturing and deeper regulatory engagement.
Apple has selected Salman Dar to head its government affairs operations in Pakistan, signaling a more structured approach to engaging with local regulators and policymakers. Dar confirmed the appointment on LinkedIn, stating he will manage the company’s government relations efforts and facilitate dialogue with authorities as Apple evaluates deeper involvement in the market.
The decision comes amid a concerted push by Islamabad to attract leading global tech firms to establish manufacturing or assembly facilities in Pakistan. Government data shows 37 companies are already producing mobile phones domestically, with output exceeding 35 million units, yet Apple remains the sole major brand not yet manufacturing locally.
Hammad Mansoor, CEO of the Engineering Development Board, told a National Assembly committee that authorities are refining regulations and addressing investment obstacles to make Pakistan more appealing to Apple. He added that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet Apple CEO John Ternus during an upcoming visit to the United States, with discussions expected to focus on potential iPhone production in Pakistan.techjuice
With over three decades of experience spanning IT, entrepreneurship and business development across Europe, South Asia, Africa and the Middle East, Dar is viewed as a strategic asset in aligning Apple’s global priorities with Pakistan’s industrial ambitions. Although no official timeline for local production has been disclosed, the appointment underscores Apple’s increasing attention to the Pakistani market following sustained government outreach.propakistani
No direct quotations from Apple or government officials were used beyond Dar’s own LinkedIn post; all other content has been fully reworded from original reporting and official briefings.
