Experts say next economic leap to be driven by digital transformation

ISLAMABAD: At the Pakistan Business Council’s high-level conference “Dialogue on the Economy,” leading technology and business executives underscored that Pakistan’s next major economic leap will be driven by digital transformation, AI adoption, and a strengthened tech export ecosystem.

The two-day event brought together senior government officials, economists, global development partners, corporate leaders and policy experts to discuss Pakistan’s economic outlook, regional opportunities, tax reform, climate resilience, and the future of investment and innovation. The dialogue aimed to build consensus on key policy priorities and propose actionable pathways for sustainable and inclusive growth.

The event also marks PBC’s 20th year of impact, a milestone in shaping Pakistan’s business ecosystem and bringing together senior ministers, policymakers, economists, global partners and leading corporate leaders to reflect on the country’s economic direction.

In one of the sessions, titled “Leveraging Technology and AI for Economic Prosperity,” experts highlighted the transformative role of digital innovation in reshaping Pakistan’s economic landscape. Moderated by Dr Ali Hasnain, the panel featured Abu Bakar (CEO, PSEB), Fatima Asad-Said (CEO, Abacus Global), Monis Rahman (Founder & Chairman, Rozee, Dukan, Recruit AI), and Safwan Shah (CEO & Founder, PayActiv).

The discussion centred on accelerating Pakistan’s digital economy, strengthening the IT export ecosystem, and leveraging AI to boost productivity, financial inclusion, and competitiveness. Speakers stressed that with supportive policies, skilled talent, and investment in digital infrastructure, Pakistan can unlock new engines of growth and position itself as a regional technology hub.

Pakistan’s economy is at a point where clarity, predictable reforms and stronger institutional collaboration are essential. Set against this backdrop, PBC’s two-decade legacy of evidence-based advocacy framed the discussions on competitiveness, investment, policy alignment and the role of responsible business in national progress.

In her keynote address, Dr Zeelaf Munir, Chairperson of PBC, underscored the role of productive businesses in driving national progress, while stating, “Pakistan’s economic strength depends on evidence-based policy, stability and long-term reform.” She added, “Pakistan’s growth requires predictability, fairness and confidence for business. These principles form the basis of a competitive economy. Sustainable growth needs partnership. Government, business, academia and civil society must work together to achieve shared outcomes.”

The conference covered monetary policy, Pakistan’s geopolitical opening, the fiscal architecture, climate resilience and structural barriers to competitiveness.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025