ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s government has shown a strong commitment to the Information Technology sector in the fiscal year 2024-25 budget.
A substantial allocation of Rs 79 billion has been earmarked for the Information Technology sector, with Rs 7 billion dedicated to digitalization and reforms within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to enhance its performance.
Additionally, the budget allocates Rs 1 billion for the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication to establish the National Digital Commission (NDC) and the Digital Pakistan Authority (DPA).
Finance and Revenue Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted the objectives of these entities, emphasizing their role in driving digital transformation, fostering innovation, and implementing digital solutions across various sectors.
The minister projected Pakistan’s IT exports to reach $3.5 billion, citing the nation’s skilled youth and favorable IT policies. The implementation of modern IT systems at the FBR aims to expand the tax base and improve tax collection efficiency.
Furthermore, the budget allocates Rs 11 billion for the Technology Park Development Project in Islamabad, Rs 2 billion for the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) to support IT exporters and facilitate student internships, and Rs 20 billion for Digital Infrastructure Information.
In a related development, the federal cabinet recently approved the Digital Nation Pakistan Act 2024, signaling a strong commitment to establishing the National Digital Commission and Pakistan Digital Authority.
