Increase IT exports to $15b by 2026: PM

Directed HEC, universities to increase number of IT professionals

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said that the country’s IT exports are not up to par, and directed the concerned authorities to take practical steps to enhance Pakistan’s IT exports from the current $2.6 billion to $15 billion within the next three years.

“Pakistan has a huge potential in the IT sector, which needs to be exploited. The IT industry stands alongside the government to improve the national economy,” said PM Shehbaz.

Chairing a meeting to discuss the promotion of the IT sector, the PM said the number of IT professionals need to be increased from 0.6 million to 1.5 million. Accordingly, he directed the Higher Education Commission, universities and training institutes to work on the said target on a priority basis, along with improving the educational curriculum in accordance with the market’s needs.

The PM also ordered the formation of a standing committee to deliberate over the linkages between the government and the IT industry, and to resolve issues being faced by the industry. The committee will comprise of representatives from the IT industry, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), finance ministry, IT ministry and other relevant departments.

Furthermore, PM Shehbaz urged the IT industry to bring its export revenue to Pakistan and instructed the SBP, Federal Board of Revenue and other departments to take effective measures in this connection. He also asked the relevant authorities to take effective measures to resolve the issues pertaining to IT sector.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 6^th, 2023.

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