The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) has advised postponing the creation of an AI regulator in Pakistan, emphasizing that the country should prioritize developing a strong AI ecosystem first. In a written response to the Senate Standing Committee on IT & Telecom about the proposed “Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Act, 2024,” the ministry argued that regulating an emerging technology like AI at this stage would be premature.
While acknowledging the significant economic and technological opportunities that AI presents, the MoITT also highlighted the associated risks. The ministry noted that over 50 countries worldwide have established national AI strategies or policies, but fewer than 10 have enacted specific AI regulations. As such, Pakistan should initially focus on essential foundational elements such as data governance, availability, and protection, which are crucial to building a robust AI ecosystem.
The leadership of AI development in Pakistan is shared between the Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives (MoPDSI) and the Minister of State for IT & Telecom. The MoPDSI has established an inclusive task force with representation from the public sector, industry, and academia to develop the National AI Plan. Similarly, the MoITT has set up an AI Committee to finalize the National AI Policy aimed at fostering an environment conducive to AI growth.
The ministry also emphasized the need for provincial engagement to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach. Both the AI task force and the MoITT policy committee have agreed that Pakistan should focus on building the necessary infrastructure and capabilities for AI before moving forward with formal regulations. While the draft AI Policy includes recommendations for an AI regulator, these are envisioned as part of a phased approach to be implemented in the future.
According to the ministry, introducing AI regulatory measures now would be premature due to the early stage of Pakistan’s AI ecosystem. The MoITT stressed that regulation should follow the development of a well-established AI environment, in line with the objectives outlined in the National AI Plan, which is currently in progress.
