ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector has seen an impressive 25% growth in exports, with the government targeting $25 billion in exports. This milestone was shared by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Pakistan’s Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication, during her address at the inaugural Pak-US Tech Investment Conference 2024, delivered via video link.
Minister Khawaja highlighted the conference as a key opportunity to strengthen collaboration between U.S. and Pakistani businesses, with a shared focus on driving technological innovation. “Pakistan’s tech ecosystem has flourished in recent years, fueled by entrepreneurship, innovation, and strong government support,” she said. “The Pak-US Tech Investment Conference plays a pivotal role in advancing our goals and fostering collaboration between our nations.”
Regarding cybersecurity, the Minister highlighted Pakistan’s significant progress in ensuring a secure digital environment. Pakistan was recently recognized globally, ranking Tier-1 (Role-Modeling) in the Global Cybersecurity Index by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), alongside leaders like the U.S. and Japan. This achievement reflects Pakistan’s growing cybersecurity capabilities, supported by initiatives such as the National Cyber Security Policy, CERT rules, and a comprehensive Cyber Security Regulations framework.
Minister Khawaja also shared Pakistan’s progress in e-governance, noting the country’s rise in the United Nations E-Government Development Index (EGDI), where it moved up 14 positions from 2022, now ranking in the High EGDI category.
She also pointed to the strong demand for Pakistani IT services, with over 60% of the country’s IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS) exports directed to the U.S. and the U.K. This highlights the high quality and competitiveness of Pakistan’s tech enterprises and freelancers.
“The government is committed to nurturing our IT sector and promoting a digital ecosystem that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship,” Minister Khawaja emphasized. “We are on a clear path toward National Digitization, supported by the formation of the National Digital Commission and the Pakistan Digital Authority, which will soon be legislated.”
Minister Khawaja stressed that while the government plays a critical role, the private sector will primarily drive the country’s digital transformation.
Pakistan’s growing appeal as a destination for international investors and technology partners was also highlighted, with the country offering cutting-edge infrastructure, tax incentives, and a business-friendly environment.
The Minister also pointed out that Pakistan produces a large pool of tech talent, with 75,000 new IT graduates entering the workforce annually. With 63% of the population under the age of 30, Pakistan’s youthful demographic is considered a significant asset. The government is investing heavily in skills development, certifications, and upskilling programs to ensure that future tech professionals contribute both domestically and globally.
“Pakistan’s youth are ready to drive the future of innovation,” concluded Minister Khawaja. “We are providing them with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age, positioning Pakistan as a global leader in tech development.”
