Pakistan Emerges as Regional IT Hub with Infrastructure and Export Strategy
Islamabad – June 10, 2025 — Pakistan is rapidly emerging as a key regional hub for information technology, backed by a combination of government-led infrastructure development, policy reforms, and a fast-growing digital talent pool.
Infrastructure Expansion
The upcoming inauguration of the Islamabad IT Park on August 14 marks a major milestone in Pakistan’s digital transformation strategy. Spanning 720,000 square feet, the facility will host over 120 tech firms, offer incubation space, and house Pakistan’s first Tier-III data center. This development is part of the Special Technology Zones (STZs) initiative, which includes other strategic hubs such as the Islamabad Technopolis and the Karachi STZ.
Other facilities like the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park (NASTP) are supporting advancements in aerospace, cybersecurity, and AI, further strengthening Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.
Export Growth and Freelancing
Pakistan’s IT exports climbed to $2.28 billion in FY2024. Islamabad has shown particularly strong growth with a 47 percent year-on-year increase in exports, reflecting the strength of its startup ecosystem supported by incubators and accelerators focused on AI, fintech, and cybersecurity.
Pakistan is also ranked among the top four countries for freelance work globally, with over 300,000 freelancers contributing an estimated $350 million to the economy. The country produces approximately 25,000 IT graduates annually, ensuring a consistent supply of skilled professionals.
Policy and Investment Incentives
The Ministry of IT and Telecom, in collaboration with the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), has introduced several incentives including income tax exemptions for startups, export-friendly banking policies, and Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) initiatives that streamline foreign direct investment in tech sectors.
National initiatives like “Digital Pakistan,” the Presidential Initiative for Artificial Intelligence and Computing (PIAIC), and the formation of Pakistan’s national Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) further demonstrate the government’s commitment to digital expansion.
International Recognition
At the 2024 GITEX Global event, Pakistan was named “Tech Destination of the Year,” a recognition of its growing influence in AI, cybersecurity, and blockchain sectors. Tech partnerships with GCC countries are expanding, especially in fintech and smart government solutions.
Challenges Ahead
Despite impressive progress, Pakistan still faces challenges including inconsistent internet connectivity, regulatory hurdles, and a need for improved digital infrastructure. Comparisons with regional leaders like India highlight the potential gap, with India’s IT exports crossing $190 billion.
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