Pakistan Pushes for Technology-Driven Inclusive Growth with AI and Digital Reforms

Pakistan is emphasizing the need for clear technological strategies to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth, highlighting the role of innovation in fostering equity and resilience. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb addressed these priorities at the World Economic Forum’s Future of Growth Initiative dialogue in Washington D.C., focusing on “Leveraging Innovation for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth.”

During his address, Aurangzeb underscored Pakistan’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), into public sector operations to improve efficiency and service delivery. The Finance Minister highlighted the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) ongoing digital transformation, which uses AI-based monitoring systems to enhance tax administration, strengthen compliance, and ensure greater transparency across the fiscal system.

Aurangzeb pointed out that AI-driven initiatives have already shown tangible benefits in other developing countries, such as improving smallholder farmers’ incomes through the use of satellite imagery for crop monitoring and yield prediction. These tools, he noted, could similarly improve agricultural productivity and public service delivery in Pakistan, supporting the government’s broader agenda of inclusive growth.

The Finance Minister emphasized that technology adoption must go beyond economic growth, ensuring equitable opportunities for all segments of society, particularly vulnerable communities. Innovation, he argued, should act as a tool for bridging socio-economic divides and strengthening resilience against both domestic and global challenges.

In addition to the WEF dialogue, Aurangzeb spoke at the JP Morgan Investment Seminar on Pakistan’s Economic and Monetary Policy Outlook, where he detailed recent progress on fiscal, monetary, and external sector fronts. He shared updates on Pakistan’s Staff Level Agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which covers the second review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the first review of the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). These agreements, he stated, reflect growing international confidence in Pakistan’s reform trajectory and economic management.

Aurangzeb highlighted that Pakistan’s economy is showing positive momentum, supported by sound macroeconomic management, improved fiscal discipline, and stronger external account stability. The government’s ongoing reforms in taxation, monetary policy, and digital governance, he noted, are key to sustaining long-term growth while ensuring that the benefits of development reach all layers of society.

The Finance Minister concluded by stressing that a comprehensive national technology strategy is essential to embed digital innovation in public policy, enhance productivity, and build resilience. By leveraging AI, data analytics, and digital finance platforms, Pakistan aims to create a framework where economic expansion and social inclusion go hand in hand, ultimately positioning the country for sustainable and equitable growth in the coming decade.

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