Meta to train 1,000 SMEs in AI, digital business

Minister invites tech giant to engage with digital economy agenda, trade associations

ISLAMABAD:

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan has welcomed Meta's initiative to train 1,000 Pakistani small and medium-sized enterprises in digital business and artificial intelligence, while inviting the company to engage with Pakistan's digital economy agenda, according to a statement on Thursday.

The minister expressed these views during a meeting with a Meta delegation led by Asia-Pacific Public Policy lead Tehara Punchihewa and Policy Programmes Manager Vivian Liang.

The Meta delegation presented its Small Business Growth Academy, a programme that will train 1,000 SMEs across Pakistan between August and November 2026 on Meta's digital platforms, AI-powered business tools and online marketing strategies. The programme will be implemented by local partner AtomCamp, with participation offered free of cost.

The delegation shared that the programme aims to improve digital skills, expand market access and support women entrepreneurs and businesses in smaller cities through physical and online training sessions.

Welcoming the initiative, Khan said the government is placing digitisation at the centre of its reform agenda, with digital transformation being pursued across ministries and public institutions.

The minister informed the delegation that Pakistan is finalising a comprehensive E-Commerce Policy, while broader work on an Artificial Intelligence Policy is also underway to promote innovation and technology-driven growth.

He emphasised that artificial intelligence should not only be viewed as a conversational tool but as a technology capable of improving policy analysis, data-driven decision-making and public sector efficiency.

Highlighting the commerce ministry's priorities, Khan said Pakistan is increasingly focusing on digital trade, e-commerce and the use of technology to expand exports and improve market intelligence.

The minister noted that Pakistan's young population, expanding smartphone penetration and rapidly growing digital economy present significant opportunities for technology companies to partner with the government.

He observed that many Pakistani businesses have entered the digital marketplace but require greater awareness and practical training to effectively utilise AI and digital tools for business growth and exports.

Khan encouraged Meta to engage closely with the directorate general of Trade Organisations, chambers of commerce and trade associations to maximise the programme's outreach. He assured the delegation that the commerce ministry would facilitate introductions across Pakistan's business community.

The minister also invited Meta to maintain regular engagement with the ministry and explore areas of shared interest, including digital skills, SME capacity building and digital literacy. He noted that Pakistan has already initiated digital partnerships with leading global technology companies, including Alibaba and Google.