In spite of facing various obstacles, Pakistan’s IT exports have experienced a remarkable 27% year-on-year increase, while the country has attained a Tier One ranking in the global cybersecurity index, as announced by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Minister of State for IT and Telecom.
During her address at the esteemed HBL-PASHA ICT Awards ceremony held in Islamabad on Monday, Khawaja commended the strides made by Pakistan’s IT sector. The event, organized by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), celebrated companies that have made notable contributions to the industry.
“The recent weeks have brought encouraging news for our IT sector. Pakistan has earned Tier One status in global cybersecurity rankings, and our position in the Electronic Government Development Index (EGDI) has progressed from mid-tier to high-tier,” Khawaja remarked. She stressed the significance of legislative backing and the vital part that P@SHA has played in this advancement.
Furthermore, Khawaja pointed out Punjab’s proactive approach to digitization and the Prime Minister’s vision of implementing similar strategies at the national level. “Punjab has pioneered e-governance initiatives such as electronic land records and an e-complaint system. The federal government is dedicated to following this model,” she stated.
The minister acknowledged P@SHA’s efforts in boosting IT exports, which have reached an impressive $3.22 billion. “These awards not only celebrate excellence but also motivate emerging companies and startups, which is essential for positioning Pakistan as a digital hub,” Khawaja noted.
P@SHA Chairman Zohaib Khan expressed appreciation for the support from the government, particularly from the Ministry of IT and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). He recognized the increase in job opportunities and export success resulting from the association’s initiatives. “Our goal is to promote ‘Made in Pakistan’ around the world, and these awards reflect our industry’s commitment,” Khan said while congratulating the award winners.
Khawaja wrapped up her remarks by emphasizing the government’s dedication to nurturing the IT sector through comprehensive policies aimed at fostering innovation and enhancing competitiveness in the industry.