Minister for IT, Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications (MoITT) Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated, “The implementation of the Digital Foreign Direct Investment Initiative marks a transformative moment for Pakistan's digital landscape.
Pakistan has taken a pioneering step in enhancing its digital economy by being the first country to implement the Digital Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Initiative launched by the World Economic Forum and the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) at Davos in 2022. This initiative aims to facilitate cross-border investment in the digital economy, particularly in emerging markets, and marks the beginning of Pakistan’s Digital FDI-Enabling Project (DEP). The project is structured around four key pillars of the World Economic Forum’s Digital FDI framework: Each pillar targets critical growth areas necessary for attracting sustained digital FDI in Pakistan. The project team, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications (MoITT) and the Board of Investment (BOI), has finalized six priority actions to drive the initiative forward: Minister for IT, Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications (MoITT) Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated, “The implementation of the Digital Foreign Direct Investment Initiative marks a transformative moment for Pakistan's digital landscape. By fostering a robust digital infrastructure, encouraging the adoption of new technologies, and supporting innovation, we are positioning Pakistan as a regional leader in digital transformation. Together, we are building a digital future that benefits all Pakistanis." This initiative is set to position Pakistan as a regional leader in digital transformation, unlocking its potential to attract substantial foreign investment and drive economic growth.
1. Digital Infrastructure
2. Digital Adoption
3. New Digital Activities
4. Digital Services Exports
1. Promote private-sector projects based on sectoral priorities and ticket size to connect local players with international investors and partners.
2. Encourage partnerships between domestic and international stakeholders to foster collaboration in the digital ecosystem.
3. Enhance government support for enabling infrastructure, ensuring a conducive environment for digital investments.
4. Build capacity for the adoption of new digital technologies among local businesses.
5. Accelerate export growth through the promotion of digital services.
6. Foster innovation by supporting new digital activities and startups.