Pakistan’s 2025–26 federal budget allocates Rs 13.5 billion to IT and digital infrastructure, targeting expanded tech parks in Karachi and Islamabad, cybersecurity enhancements, and venture capital for startups—signaling a renewed government focus on digital innovation.
In parallel, the Prime Minister’s directive to double digital payment targets aims to increase mobile-based users from 95 million to 120 million and QR-enabled merchants from 0.9 to 2 million, reinforcing a strategy toward a comprehensive cashless economy.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority released its Q1 2025 service survey, with Jazz and Zong topping download-speed rankings in nationwide tests—highlighting competitive telecom enhancements critical to digital adoption.
Supporting tech talent development, the provincial e‑Rozgaar Program continues training in freelancing, app development, and digital marketing—boosting Pakistan’s digital labor pool.
Pakistan also plans its inaugural AI policy by end‑2025, focusing on cybersecurity, public-private CERT teams, and ethical AI frameworks—aligning with global trends in AI governance.
In the space domain, SUPARCO’s PRSC‑EO1 satellite, launched in January, is now operational—supporting earth observation and bolstering domestic satellite capabilities.
However, the exit of Microsoft after 25 years marks a setback, prompting concerns over foreign direct investment and regulatory barriers within Pakistan’s tech environment.
Together, these developments—from budgetary backing to infrastructure and policy changes—underscore Pakistan’s bolder push toward digital economy ambitions, even as it navigates corporate departures and regulatory challenges.
