ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reaffirmed its vision to position Information Technology (IT) as a key driver of economic growth, setting ambitious export and investment targets and pursuing partnerships with emerging digital markets worldwide.
The Pakistan Mission to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in collaboration with the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), hosted a high-profile networking event titled “Pakistan Night” to promote Pakistan’s digital potential and attract international investors.
IT and Telecommunication Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, who served as the chief guest, reaffirmed the government’s “strong commitment to supporting the IT industry in key areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software development, and data processing.”
She highlighted the success of programs like Ignite, which have enabled Pakistani startups to connect with global opportunities.
“Pakistan’s digital economy is expanding rapidly, and we are committed to building an ecosystem that fosters innovation and international collaboration,” the minister said.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE Faisal Niaz Tirmizi said the government aims to increase IT exports from the current $4 billion to $100 billion, driven by innovation, foreign investment, and strategic partnerships.
“Pakistan has immense digital potential and a growing base of skilled professionals. By engaging with emerging IT markets, we can transform this potential into global competitiveness,” Tirmizi said.
The event brought together senior diplomats, Emirati officials, and representatives from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, business councils, and GITEX Global 2025 exhibitors.
Rana Ihsan Afzal Khan, coordinator to the prime minister on commerce, described Pakistan’s IT sector as “the fastest-growing industry in the country,” noting an average annual growth rate of around 20%.
According to official data, Pakistan’s IT sector currently contributes nearly 1% to national GDP, employs over 120,000 professionals, and comprises more than 12,000 companies.
The sector has doubled in size over the past four years, with IT exports reaching $1.53 billion in the first five months of the current fiscal year. A 33% increase from the previous year.
The government’s broader digital strategy includes the “Uraan Pakistan” initiative, targeting $10 billion in IT exports by 2029, and a $10 billion partnership with South Korea to develop technology parks across the country.
“These initiatives are not just policy goals, they represent a roadmap to Pakistan’s digital future,” Khawaja said, lauding the efforts of Pakistan’s diplomatic missions and industry leaders in promoting innovation-led growth.
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