ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Caretaker Minister for Information Technology (IT), Dr. Umar Saif, announced a remarkable growth of 22.67% in Pakistan’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) export remittances for December 2023. The country recorded a total of $303 million in ICT export proceeds during the month, building on a 13% increase observed in November 2023.
Dr. Umar Saif attributed this substantial growth to various facilitative measures implemented by the government. These measures include allowing the retention of 50% of the earned dollars, introducing digital payment systems, and launching initiatives tailored for freelancers. The minister emphasized the pivotal role these initiatives played in fostering the expansion of ICT exports.
Expressing gratitude to Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) for their efforts in supporting the IT industry, Dr. Saif underscored that the underlying objective of these policies was to strengthen the national economy and propel the IT and telecom sectors forward.
Surge in Pakistan’s IT Export
Dr. Saif regarded this surge in IT exports as a promising start, anticipating significant growth in the industry. He credited the reforms introduced by the caretaker government for creating a conducive environment for the flourishing of the IT sector.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar recently inaugurated the establishment of Pakistan E-Rozgar Co-Working Centers across the country to provide support to freelancers and bolster the IT sector.
During the launch ceremony of Tech Destination Pakistan in Islamabad, PM Kakar outlined the initiative’s goal to create an ecosystem conducive to the thriving of talented individuals. These co-working centers, backed by interest-free loans, assistance, and training, aim to enhance the capacity of the youth and contribute to the realization of a digital Pakistan.
