Pakistan’s IT sector is booming, and the country is eager to show the world. This week, over 50 Pakistani companies are participating in Gitex Global, the Middle East’s largest technology event, showcasing their innovations and expertise.
Pakistan’s Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Syed Amin Ul Haque, inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion at the event. He expressed his confidence that Pakistan is making significant strides in cutting-edge technology. Haque pointed to the impressive growth of Pakistan’s IT sector, which has more than doubled since 2020 despite the global economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He also highlighted Pakistan’s strong showing in artificial intelligence,blockchain, and the Metaverse.
Pakistan boasts a young and talented population, with over 65% under the age of 25. This young workforce is making a name for itself in the global freelance IT market. The government is actively supporting the IT sector through various initiatives, including the Digital Pakistan policy and the creation of technology parks in remote areas.
Advantages for Businesses
Pakistan offers several advantages for businesses looking to outsource IT services. The country has a large and skilled IT workforce, a strategic location with favorable time zones, and competitive pricing. Pakistan is also ranked as the second-largest supplier of online labor for software development and the second-most attractive location for offshore outsourcing services.
Junaid Imam, a representative from Pakistan, highlighted the growing trend of Pakistani professionals returning home to take advantage of the opportunities in the country’s booming IT sector. This “reverse brain drain” is further strengthening Pakistan’s IT capabilities.
Invitation to Techspring
Minister Haque concluded by inviting attendees to visit Pakistan in March 2023 for their own technology exhibition,”Techspring.” He encouraged everyone to visit the Pakistani companies at Gitex and experience their talent and innovation firsthand.
This significant presence at Gitex Global 2022 underscores Pakistan’s growing importance in the global technology landscape. The country is well-positioned to become a major player in the IT sector in the years to come.