Amir Saeed

Pakistan’s digital growth is empowering the youth, boosting economic diversity, expanding global reach, and driving innovation through improved skills and connectivity.

Speaking to WealthPK, Ahad Nazir, an IT expert at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), highlighted that Pakistan’s IT sector was experiencing unprecedented growth, creating new avenues for youth empowerment and economic advancement, as the country targets $4 billion in IT exports in the coming financial year.

He observed that the country’s rapidly increasing internet penetration was fuelling substantial growth in the IT sector. “Digitalization is driving job creation, entrepreneurship, and investment, with the rise of e-commerce and gig platforms, enabling small businesses and freelancers to access the global markets and clients,” he said.

He pointed out that although Pakistan was already among the top global destinations for freelance IT work, a shortage of digital skills remained a bottleneck. Expanding digital literacy and upskilling programs is essential to fully realize the sector’s potential, generating hundreds of thousands of jobs in software development, digital marketing, and fintech.

He mentioned that internet access was also advancing financial inclusion, as mobile banking and digital wallets had reached the underbanked populations, reducing poverty and supporting sustainable growth. Increased digital transactions formalize the economy, broadening the tax base and improving government revenue collection.

“As seen in Vietnam and Bangladesh, improvements in digital infrastructure and regulations can accelerate GDP growth and attract foreign investment. Pakistani SMEs and artisans are leveraging platforms like Amazon Seller Pakistan to reach global consumers directly, bypassing intermediaries and integrating into global value chains.”

He added that foreign investors were increasingly interested in markets with robust digital infrastructure, and the country could attract more investment by enhancing its digital ecosystem. Expansion of freelance and remote work has made the gig economy a significant source of foreign exchange, further diversifying exports.

“By investing in digital infrastructure and education, Pakistan can boost its competitiveness, foster innovation, and replicate the digital success stories of Vietnam and Bangladesh, positioning its youth at the forefront of the global IT economy.” Speaking to WealthPK, Awais Ahmad, Director Tech Solutions Pro, predicted that by 2026, artificial intelligence and IT solutions will become essential drivers of prosperity in Pakistan.

He highlighted that IT exports had already reached $3.2 billion in FY24, and the industry anticipated 25 percent year-on-year growth in FY25. He noted that these technologies were being rapidly integrated across sectors, from education to business, and will play a pivotal role in the country’s progress. However, he emphasized the critical need for improved internet infrastructure and strategic planning to fully realize the benefits of these advancements.

“Enhanced connectivity will be key to widespread adoption, ensuring that the youth can access training and employment opportunities in emerging fields like AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity, further cementing Pakistan’s position as a rising tech hub,” he said.

Credit: INP-WealthPk