Qudsia Bano

Pakistan’s increasing push for digital transformation can become a turning point for its cash-strapped economy if supported by consistent policies and long-term investment, according to experts.

The government’s recent efforts to expand digital infrastructure, introduce smart governance systems, and encourage private sector participation are being seen as essential steps to reposition Pakistan as a competitive player in the global economy. 

In its recent report, the Asian Development Bank noted that the country’s digital agenda has the potential to accelerate economic growth, improve governance, and expand access to essential services.  The report emphasizes that by adopting digital solutions, Pakistan can enhance tax collection, increase exports, attract more foreign investment, and improve service delivery across sectors. 

Industry professionals working closely with digital systems also agree that this shift could unlock opportunities across the board.  Waqas Ahmed, a senior software engineer at Systems Limited, said that the real impact of digital transformation would come from how it changes daily interactions in businesses and government services. 

He explained that with better digital integration, small and medium enterprises could scale faster, reduce operational costs, and compete in international markets.  He added that the increased use of digital payment systems, mobile banking, and e-commerce has already started creating new jobs in tech support, logistics, and digital marketing. 

Shumaila Tariq, who works as a technology consultant at 10Pearls, believes digitalization is not just about bringing in new tools but changing how people think and solve problems.  She said platforms like e-learning, telehealth, and digital ID systems are helping people in remote areas access services that were once out of reach.

Shumaila stressed that digital inclusion must go hand in hand with digital literacy, especially among women and youth in rural communities.  The ADB report also points out that Pakistan’s digital sector currently contributes around 1.5 percent to the national GDP, but its indirect impact is much larger. Digitalization in agriculture, for instance, is helping farmers get better access to markets and weather information.

In manufacturing, automation and data tools are improving productivity, while service providers are increasingly using cloud-based platforms to offer faster and more reliable solutions.  The government’s recent legislative move, the Digital Nation Pakistan Act 2025, aims to strengthen governance around the digital economy.   

The Pakistan Digital Authority has been created under the Act to oversee the implementation of digital strategies and ensure coordination among the federal and provincial governments.  A National Digital Commission, chaired by the prime minister, will guide the direction of digital development, including goals like boosting digital literacy and ensuring cybersecurity. 

The report highlights that Pakistan now has the opportunity to skip older stages of development and directly adopt modern technologies that can boost growth while keeping the costs low.   This includes mobile-based services, AI-driven platforms, and efficient tax administration systems. If managed well, these digital reforms could reduce corruption, bring more people into the formal economy, and support long-term goals such as sustainable development and climate resilience.

By focusing on digital reforms and strengthening institutions that can deliver services effectively, Pakistan is laying the foundation for a more resilient and inclusive economy.   With continued effort and collaboration between public and private sectors, experts believe the digital push could indeed be a game-changer the country needs.

Credit: INP-WealthPk