As Pakistan’s IT industry continues to thrive and show signs of growth, Muhammad Zohaib Khan, the former Chairman of the Pakistan IT Industry Association (P@SHA), has called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to introduce a special package for the sector in the upcoming national budget. Khan’s call comes at a time when Pakistan’s IT exports are on track to reach $3.6 billion this year, marking a significant milestone for the country’s tech sector.
In a statement, Khan highlighted the government’s ongoing push for a digital economy, citing initiatives such as Uraan Pakistan. He emphasized that while these efforts are commendable, it is essential for the government to complement them with robust policy reforms and incentives that can provide sustainable growth for the IT industry. According to Khan, these measures will ensure that Pakistan’s growing tech sector remains competitive on the global stage and can continue to attract investment, innovation, and talent.
Khan noted that Pakistan’s IT industry has made substantial progress thanks to the collaborative efforts of several key stakeholders, including the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), the Ministry of IT & Telecom, and the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB). However, to sustain and accelerate this positive momentum, Pakistan must implement extraordinary steps to position itself as a global leader in the technology sector.
“A well-structured IT package is essential to unlock the full potential of Pakistan’s tech ecosystem,” said Khan. “The government must introduce policies that facilitate ease of business, offer tax relief, provide targeted funding for skill development programs, and launch an aggressive ‘Brand Pakistan’ campaign to promote the country’s tech capabilities internationally.” He also underscored the importance of mobilizing the incentives provided by the Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA) specifically for the IT sector, which could help attract investment and further develop the industry.
Khan emphasized that with the national budget approaching, the government has a critical opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to the IT sector—an industry that, if properly nurtured, can drive significant economic growth, create high-value jobs, and substantially boost exports. With the right policy framework, he believes that Pakistan’s IT sector could see exports soar to over $5 billion in the near future.
“The IT sector has the potential to become one of Pakistan’s leading export industries,” Khan continued. “But for that to happen, we need bold steps and immediate action from the government. The upcoming budget is an ideal moment to introduce the necessary policies and incentives that can pave the way for this growth.”
Khan’s remarks reflect the growing need for the government to prioritize the digital economy as a key pillar of the country’s overall economic strategy. The IT sector has already proven its resilience and potential, with the country emerging as a growing hub for tech exports and innovation in the region. However, unlocking its full potential will require a concerted effort from both the private and public sectors to ensure that Pakistan is positioned as a competitive player in the global technology landscape.
As the country moves towards a digital future, the introduction of a special IT package in the national budget could be a game-changer for Pakistan’s economy, setting the stage for long-term growth and prosperity in the tech sector. By providing the right incentives, infrastructure, and support, the government can help Pakistan realize its full potential as a leader in the global digital economy.