IT sector eyes $25m in exports to Qatar

Pakistan's IT exporters plan to increase the export of IT and IT-enabled services to Qatar, a key potential market, to $25 million in the next few years.

In collaboration with the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication (MoITT), the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), IT exporters are working on aggressive strategic expansion plans in both traditional and emerging markets with cutting-edge products and services.

As part of this initiative, a delegation of 10 IT companies with over 30 delegates is attending Web Summit Qatar 2025, one of the world's leading technology conferences. The delegation is showcasing Pakistan's dynamic IT and tech innovation landscape at a dedicated Pakistan Pavilion.

Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) Senior Vice Chairman Umair Nizam said that Qatar's significant market is now opening up for Pakistani IT companies in a meaningful way due to the strides of Pakistan's IT industry, backed by the SIFC, PSEB, and MoITT.

Pakistani companies are presenting cutting-edge IT solutions, software services, and innovative tech products. Their participation reinforces Pakistan's position as a rising hub for IT and digital services, fostering connections with international investors, partners, and technology leaders, he said.

Nizam added that Pakistan's IT companies are also likely to attract investments, joint ventures, and collaborations with Qatar-based IT firms, along with export orders for IT services to Pakistan. He stressed the critical role of public-private partnerships in driving Pakistan's tech industry forward, encouraging Pakistani companies to seize global expansion opportunities.

Qatar remains a key export destination for Pakistani tech companies, as growing engagement is expected to unlock new business opportunities, investments, and knowledge-sharing in key technology sectors. Pakistan's total exports to Qatar stand at nearly $200 million, with the IT sector's share estimated at $10 million.

The Pakistan Pavilion was officially inaugurated by Pakistan's Ambassador to Qatar, Lt Gen (retd) Muhammad Aamer, PSEB CEO Abu Bakar, and P@SHA SVC Umair Nizam, marking a significant milestone in strengthening Pakistan-Qatar technology ties.

Speaking at the inauguration, the ambassador highlighted the strength of Pakistan's IT sector and its potential for international collaborations. PSEB CEO Abu Bakar emphasised the government's unwavering support for IT exports and global partnerships, underscoring initiatives aimed at accelerating the industry's growth.

Dr Noman Said, an IT exporter, said Qatar is an emerging market for Pakistani companies after Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with huge potential to explore new business avenues not only in the IT sector but across various industries requiring IT services.

Under the National Qatar Vision 2030, the Qatari government is working to promote the digital economy and governance systems, creating significant opportunities for Pakistani IT firms, he said.

He added that, beyond exports, Pakistani IT companies should attract investments from Qatari investors and capitalists with effective strategies and marketing campaigns.

Meanwhile, Web Summit Qatar 2025 has provided Pakistani IT firms with unparalleled networking and business opportunities, fostering valuable partnerships with international stakeholders. Pakistan's successful participation at the summit highlights its increasing role in the global tech ecosystem, paving the way for future cross-border collaborations.