IT experts, analysts, and business leaders are calling for the immediate establishment of software technology zones (STZs) and software technology parks (STPs) in Karachi. Despite being Pakistan’s economic engine, the city has neither STZs nor STPs, unlike Lahore and Islamabad. These facilities are seen as crucial for strengthening Karachi’s position as a technology hub and boosting the IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS) sector.
Experts Stress the Need for Immediate Action
Speaking to The Express Tribune, IT expert and analyst Syed Saad Ali highlighted the urgent need for at least eight to ten software technology zones and multiple technology parks in Karachi. “Setting up such IT facilities will significantly boost IT exports in a short time. Public sector universities must also produce qualified talent instead of raw talent, which is of little use to the industry,” he said.
Similarly, IT analyst and Project Director at the National Incubation Centre (NIC) Karachi, Syed Azfar Hussain, stressed the transformative impact of innovation hubs. “Software and IT parks are innovation hubs that drive technological and economic growth by promoting collaboration and creativity. Karachi, with its entrepreneurial spirit, skilled talent pool, and renowned universities, is well-positioned to benefit from such an ecosystem,” he said.
He also cited global success stories, such as the Research Triangle Park (RTP) in the US, renowned for its cutting-edge innovation; Zhongguancun in Beijing, synonymous with electronic excellence; and Kista Science City in Stockholm, which produced global tech giants like Skype and Spotify. “Establishing similar parks in Karachi could unlock immense potential, spark breakthroughs, create jobs, and strengthen the city’s position as a technology powerhouse,” he added.
Business Leaders Call for Collaboration
Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), also asked for a software technology park to create an enabling environment for IT and ITeS exports. According to a press statement, he said Karachi faces infrastructural challenges that hinder its potential for IT exports and attracting investments.
Abu Bakar, CEO of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), visited the FPCCI head office in Karachi to discuss ways to boost the country’s IT exports. He endorsed the FPCCI’s demand for a subsidized software technology park in Karachi. “We are working aggressively to establish a large STP in Karachi to match its enormous, young, skilled, and motivated workforce,” he said.
He also pointed out the lack of private-sector investment in IT companies in Pakistan. “Globally, IT companies are often owned by large business and corporate groups, enabling rapid funding and expansion, a phenomenon largely absent in Pakistan. We need to bring private-sector domestic investment into Pakistan’s IT industry,” he added.
A Collaborative Path Forward
Former P@SHA Chairman Zohaib Khan emphasized the importance of cooperation between IT organisations and business councils. He proposed a joint working group between PSEB and FPCCI with clear objectives:
- To act as a matchmaking platform between the IT industry and the business community for investment and collaboration.
- To explore untapped export markets, such as the US, Europe, and GCC countries.
- To recommend swift visa issuance for genuine IT exporters, service providers, exhibitors, and professionals.
- To raise awareness about STPs and special technology zones.
Karachi has great potential to become a leading technology hub because of its entrepreneurial culture, skilled talent, and top universities. However, experts and industry leaders agree that a lack of IT infrastructure is holding the city back. Establishing software technology zones and parks could transform Karachi into a powerhouse of innovation, boost exports, and create countless job opportunities. It’s time to take decisive action and unlock Karachi’s full potential.
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