IT exports increase by 27% despite challenges: Minister of State

Minister of State for IT, Shaza Fatima, stated that despite numerous challenges, IT exports have increased by 27% on an annual basis, and Pakistan has also been included among Tier One ranked countries in the global cybersecurity index.

She expressed these views while addressing an award ceremony organized by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) to honor companies providing outstanding services in Pakistan’s IT industry at a local hotel in Islamabad on Monday.

She mentioned that some good news has emerged from the sector in recent weeks. Pakistan has been included in Tier One of the cybersecurity rankings, and after two years, Pakistan has also been upgraded from mid-tier to high-tier in the EGDI (E-Government Development Index).

The Minister of State highlighted that P@SHA has played an important role in enhancing IT exports, and the government’s vision is to take steps to promote the IT sector. The sector itself is also playing a significant role in this growth.

Shaza Fatima noted that about eight or nine years ago, Punjab implemented a digitized system, and it is the Prime Minister’s vision to bring this system to the federal level as soon as possible.

Punjab is currently leading in e-governance, with electronic complaint systems and land records.

She added that the government is introducing comprehensive policies to promote the IT sector in the country.

The active role of the IT sector and P@SHA’s efforts to drive the digital economy are commendable.

Recognizing the outstanding performers with awards will boost the industry’s spirit and help position the country as a digital hub.

A grand ceremony titled “HBL-P@SHA ICT Awards” was held in Islamabad on Monday, with Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja as the chief guest.

The event was attended by officials from the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), senior government officials, diplomats, P@SHA members, and prominent figures from the IT industry.

During her speech, Shaza Fatima praised the IT sector’s active role and P@SHA’s management, particularly Chairman Zohaib Khan, for their contributions to the country’s digital economy.

She emphasized that awarding companies in this way fosters a competitive environment, inspires new companies and startups, and helps turn the country into a digital hub.

HBL and P@SHA’s roles were highly praised in this regard. The Minister of State also informed the participants about the government’s initiatives in the IT sector.

Speaking at the event, P@SHA Chairman Muhammad Zohaib Khan stated that they have always aimed to effectively represent the legitimate demands of IT companies at every government forum. They have received full cooperation from the Ministry of IT and SIFC.

Through P@SHA’s initiatives and industry support, not only have millions of job opportunities been created, but IT exports have consistently set new records, reaching $3.22 billion with continuous growth.

Zohaib Khan congratulated the award-winning companies, stating that they are promoting “Made in Pakistan” and introducing Pakistani IT companies globally. While these awards are not a substitute for the companies’ contributions, they are a recognition of their services.

He expressed hope that the industry will continue to play its part in achieving the Prime Minister’s target of $25 billion in exports.