Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Google’s Director for Pakistan, Farhan S Qureshi, highlighted the growth potential of Pakistan’s app and gaming sector at Think Apps 2024 in Lahore. The event focused on equipping developers with AI tools to drive innovation. Pakistani studios are leading the field, contributing to the country’s potential $6.6 billion digital export revenue by 2030.
The Pakistan Embassy in Saudi Arabia has launched a Co-Working Space at its Riyadh premises, aimed at facilitating Pakistani startups and tech companies looking to establish their businesses in the Kingdom. Interested parties can contact the Embassy for more information via email.
STARLINK and other LEO satellite operators are interested in launching services in Pakistan but have not yet met the required licensing conditions. While STARLINK has applied for an LDI license, the approval process is ongoing, with regulatory concerns being addressed under the new National Space Policy.
Pakistani startup PostEx, specializing in financial and logistics solutions for online merchants, is expanding into Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The company, which facilitates transactions and manages cash flow for e-commerce businesses, aims to support regional growth by providing upfront payments against cash on delivery orders and enhancing logistics.
The 25th ITCN Asia, Pakistan’s premier IT and telecom expo, will take place at Karachi’s Expo Center, aiming to attract over $500 million in investments. The event will feature 750 companies and the World CIO 200 Summit, enhancing Pakistan’s global tech stature with participants from 17 countries.
The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) is conducting a Phase II review of the proposed merger between PTCL and Telenor Pakistan. The review focuses on potential benefits, such as improved network coverage and service quality, while addressing concerns about reduced competition and capacity asymmetry in Pakistan’s telecom market.
Google for Startups has launched the ‘AI Academy’ in Pakistan to foster Artificial Intelligence development across Asia-Pacific. This initiative, part of the Google Chromebook project, aims to establish Pakistan as a key AI hub through innovative partnerships and educational programs, including providing 1,000 scholarships to university students.
TallyMarks Consulting (TMC) introduces SAP Business Technology Platform (SAP BTP) in Pakistan, offering advanced digital solutions for enhanced business operations. This initiative aims to revolutionize workflows, facilitate data-driven decisions, and propel economic growth by improving productivity, creating jobs, and enhancing global competitiveness for Pakistani businesses.
Pakistan has launched four Special Technology Zones in Punjab, projected to generate $350 million in annual tech exports and create jobs for 50,000 professionals. These zones, focusing on key technology sectors, are part of a broader initiative to boost the economy amidst ongoing internet disruptions threatening significant financial losses.
Telenor Pakistan has launched 4G services in Hunza and upgraded its network in Gilgit and Skardu, enhancing connectivity and driving digital transformation in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. This initiative aims to boost local tourism, expand e-commerce, and support economic growth, positioning the region as a digital hub in Pakistan.