Pakistan's IT industry aims to generate $500 million in leads at GITEX Dubai 2024, showcasing the country's tech innovation and global potential.
- Pakistan Named ‘Tech Destination of the Year’ at GITEX Dubai 2024
In an exciting development for Pakistan’s IT sector, Sajjad Mustafa Syed, Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), has announced that leading Pakistani IT companies, startups, and exporters will participate in the prestigious GITEX 2024 event in Dubai. The event will take place from October 14-18 and is seen as a significant opportunity for Pakistan to showcase its IT industry to the global stage.
GITEX: A Gateway for Pakistan’s IT Export Growth
Sajjad Mustafa Syed highlighted the importance of GITEX for Pakistan’s economy, especially in terms of IT exports. “GITEX will bring together 180 countries, over 200,000 trade buyers, 65,000 senior IT executives, and 7,000 multinational companies from across the globe. This platform presents a huge opportunity for us to position Pakistan as a strong IT hub,” he explained.
He further shared that Pakistan’s delegation is expecting to generate up to $500 million in business leads during the event, a potential boost for the country’s IT sector.
Pakistan Named ‘Tech Destination of the Year’
Following the success of previous years, where Pakistani companies had a strong presence at GITEX, Pakistan has been named “Tech Destination of the Year” for the 2024 edition. This recognition is a collaborative effort between P@SHA, the Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication (MoITT), the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
“This is a global achievement for Pakistan,” said Syed, reflecting on the significance of the title for Pakistan’s growing tech industry.
Government’s Support for IT Innovation and Growth
Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of State for IT & Telecommunication, emphasized the government’s commitment to innovation and global partnerships. “This collaboration underscores Pakistan’s dedication to showcasing its talented tech professionals and the enormous potential of our IT sector at a global level,” she stated.
A Bright Future for Pakistan’s IT Industry
Muhammad Umair Nizam, Senior Vice Chairman of P@SHA and Chairman of the Brand Committee, stressed the crucial role of innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusivity in propelling Pakistan’s IT sector forward. He noted that IT is currently the only major industry in Pakistan with a 77% trade surplus. Additionally, the industry is poised to bring in $5 billion in foreign exchange by FY25, helping to bridge the country’s overall trade deficit, stabilize the rupee-dollar exchange rate, and create numerous job opportunities.
“The IT industry can dramatically contribute to stabilizing Pakistan’s economy and build foreign exchange reserves while developing a highly skilled workforce for both domestic and international markets,” Nizam added.
Leading Pakistani Companies at GITEX 2024
Nadeem Malik, Secretary General of P@SHA, shared that several prominent Pakistani IT companies will be exhibiting at GITEX. Some of the key players include Quixas Technology Pvt Ltd, Wateen Solutions, AutoSoft Dynamics, KODERLABS, Dynamics 360, Creation Next, and Bits Collision, among others.
Conclusion
The participation of Pakistan’s IT industry at GITEX 2024 represents a significant opportunity for the country to strengthen its position in the global IT market. With the support of the government and P@SHA, Pakistani companies are set to make their mark, showcasing the nation’s innovation, talent, and export potential.