further improving IT infrastructure to boost exports by upto $25 bn in 5 years
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday expressed his contentment with the measures being implemented to enhance Information Technology (IT) exports to $25 billion over the next five years. He instructed the relevant authorities to further strengthen IT infrastructure to achieve this ambitious goal.
While presiding over a meeting focused on the IT sector, the prime minister emphasized the need to simplify the existing Right of Way regulations to promote broadband services through fiber optics across the country.Philip Morris Pakistan Exports $48 Million
He also directed the authorities to provide IT training for the youth aligned with international standards, enabling them to secure employment opportunities abroad. Additionally, he instructed the facilitation of visa processes for businesspeople interested in investing in Pakistan’s IT sector.
Responding to recommendations from the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), PM Shehbaz Sharif ordered the issuance of visas within 24 hours for foreign businesspersons seeking services from Pakistani IT companies. He further called for developing an international marketing strategy to promote Pakistan’s IT sector globally.
During the meeting, the prime minister was briefed on steps taken to increase IT exports to $25 billion. The briefing highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance public access to smartphones, extend broadband coverage to more areas, improve internet speed, and meet other key objectives.
It was revealed that the number of freelancers in Pakistan, currently at 1.4 million, is expected to grow to 2 million within two years. Furthermore, the DigiSkills program will train over 300,000 individuals by June 2025, with plans to raise this figure to 900,000 in the following two years.
The meeting also discussed the progress of the National AI Policy, which is under consultation and will be presented for approval next month.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Minister of State for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and senior officials from relevant institutions attended the meeting.
