ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday announced that Pakistan had secured around $700 million in new foreign investment commitments for its information technology sector, urging continued international support as the country aims to become a leader in the global digital economy.
Speaking at the Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI-2025) conference, the premier declared, “Pakistan is not waiting for the future — we are shaping it.”
The event brought together leading global tech executives, investors, and innovation experts, reflecting Pakistan’s growing prominence in the digital space.
In his keynote address, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the government’s determination to make Pakistan a global tech hub. He emphasized the country’s youthful demographic — with 60% of the population aged between 15 and 30 — as a key driver of its digital transformation.
The prime minister highlighted several government initiatives aimed at boosting the tech ecosystem, such as the establishment of IT parks, incubation centers, and a nationwide research and development framework.
He also announced a new collaboration with Chinese tech giant Huawei to train 200,000 young Pakistanis each year through a skills development program. Additionally, he noted that the country received a record $4.1 billion in remittances in March, a sign of growing global confidence in Pakistan’s digital prospects.
“We’re not just developing a digital economy; we’re building a digital Pakistan,” he said, adding that new technologies are being used to modernize sectors like agriculture and expand high-tech exports. “Now is the time for global investors to partner with us.”
Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja underscored the rapid growth of IT exports, improved regulatory frameworks, and Pakistan’s expanding digital infrastructure.
During the event, PM Shehbaz presented a souvenir to Deemah Al Yahya, Secretary General of the Digital Cooperation Organisation, who commended Pakistan’s vision and commitment to digital innovation.
“This is more than a trend — it’s a revolution,” said Al Yahya. “With over 142 million broadband users, 65% smartphone penetration, and IT exports expected to surpass $4 billion, Pakistan is well-positioned for digital acceleration.”
Pakistan Software Export Board CEO Abu Bakar echoed this sentiment, calling the export growth a result of strong public-private collaboration and the nation’s tech talent.
Investment in Dairy Sector
In a separate meeting, PM Shehbaz also met with a delegation led by Jan Derck van Karnebeek, Global CEO of Royal FrieslandCampina and Engro Pakistan. The delegation expressed interest in expanding investments in Pakistan’s livestock and dairy sectors.
The prime minister welcomed the collaboration, saying that partnerships with companies like FrieslandCampina would help modernize the dairy industry, improve milk safety and nutrition, and boost exports.
“Sustainable dairy development and better livelihoods for farmers remain top priorities,” the PM Office said in a press release.
