Envoy sees potential for tenfold rise in IT exports

Pakistan's participation in Gitex Global 2024, the world's largest IT and communication exhibition, has garnered substantial attention as companies are receiving a positive response.

Pakistan is being officially promoted as a key tech destination and a special conference has been organised to boost connectivity and cooperation with the country's information technology sector. A total of 24 companies have set up stalls at the Pakistan pavilion. In addition to these, several other major Pakistani companies and organisations are participating individually.

Pakistan's Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Faisal Niaz Tirmizi visited the pavilion and praised the country's participation. Speaking to the media, he noted that Pakistan's IT exports to the UAE had surged 34% since last year's Gitex, underscoring the exhibition's importance. Alongside 24 Pakistani companies, firms from the US, the UK, Canada and the UAE with Pakistani roots are also showcasing their innovations this year.

"Gitex is a crucial platform and increased participation of Pakistani companies is vital," stated Tirmizi. He expressed hope that the number of participants would grow to 48 and eventually 100 companies in the coming years.

"This platform is especially important for highlighting the IT skills of Pakistani youth on a global stage," he remarked.

The envoy announced that Pakistan had been recognised as the "Tech Destination of the Year 2024" by Gitex Global, marking a significant achievement for the tech industry. He emphasised the potential for Pakistan's IT exports, which currently stand at $3.2 billion, to reach at least $30 billion.

He commended the role of Pakistani embassy in facilitating the country's participation in Gitex and providing support to the companies. "As the fifth largest populated country, Pakistan should aim to have the fifth largest economy and IT industry. We need to collaborate with the private sector to unlock this potential," added Tirmizi.

Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) CEO Zeeshan R Khattak highlighted the potential of Pakistan's highly skilled workforce, with around 75,000 IT graduates entering the job market annually.

He believes that with proper exposure, skill development and infrastructure, Pakistan's IT sector could meet ambitious export targets. PSEB is working to bridge the gap between universities and the industry to ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills needed, especially for export-oriented work.

"To succeed in the global market, our young IT professionals need three things: exposure, skill development and the right infrastructure," said Khattak. "We are focused on creating opportunities for training and mentoring to ensure our workforce is globally competitive."

Pakistan Premier Cables CEO Shahid Ismail, who has been participating in Gitex for 15 years, credited the exhibition for connecting his company with Etisalat, one of the world's leading telecom companies, which led to the export of fibre optic cables manufactured in Pakistan.