ISLAMABAD:

The government has directed the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) to focus on developing commercial applications and stop working on building AI platforms.

It has also instructed the ministry to harness AI technology to create tailor-made applications for ministries and divisions, streamlining work processes, making them more efficient, and enabling better management of government business.

In July, the cabinet approved the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy 2025 and issued several directions for its use.

During the discussion, cabinet members appreciated MoITT’s efforts in devising the policy. Members also gave suggestions to make the framework more robust and meaningful in Pakistan’s social and national context. The prime minister commended MoITT, noting that while change often brings challenges, AI is the need of the time, and the policy is a step in the right direction.

The cabinet directed that the AI Policy should focus on developing commercial applications rather than investing in platforms. It also acknowledged that AI adoption in workplaces could lead to job losses and stressed the need to reskill workers at risk. To meet growing demand for an AI-skilled workforce, the policy should ensure universities produce adequate numbers of AI graduates. AI basics should also be introduced at the school level to orient children from an early age.

The cabinet further asked MoITT to ensure AI benefits are not restricted to the elite and that no rural-urban divide emerges from the adoption of new technologies.

MoITT, in coordination with the Finance and Planning Divisions, was tasked with ensuring resources for meeting the policy’s goals. The ministry was also directed to prioritise work on the Cloud Policy.

MoITT briefed the cabinet that Pakistan’s IT sector is experiencing remarkable growth and has become a key driver of economic development. The industry has consistently shown resilience and innovation, with exports recording strong double-digit growth in recent years.

This trajectory highlights Pakistan’s growing global presence and its potential to contribute further to national prosperity. The country stands at a crucial juncture in the global technological landscape, with emerging technologies showing strong promise and positioning Pakistan as a potential tech destination.

The cabinet was apprised that emerging technologies, including AI, are becoming increasingly critical for the IT sector and carry strategic national importance. AI is rapidly reshaping industries worldwide, with applications in agriculture, logistics, smart cities, manufacturing, energy, and healthcare. While AI offers significant opportunities for growth, it also carries risks. Many countries are developing policies and regulations to maximise benefits while minimising potential downsides.

The cabinet was informed that, according to industry estimates, the global AI market size is expected to surpass $1.8 trillion by 2030. Officials emphasised that this is the right time for Pakistan to adopt an overarching approach to AI. With rapid global advances, Pakistan needs a comprehensive policy to harness AI’s potential while addressing challenges.

MoITT had already initiated work on drafting the National AI Policy to capture opportunities and prepare for risks. As part of an open process, the draft was developed with input from ministries, public sector entities, and provincial governments. It was also published on the ministry’s website for public comment. An inclusive committee, comprising representatives from the public and private sectors, industry, and academia, finalised the draft after reviews and incorporating stakeholder feedback.

The cabinet was informed that the draft National AI Policy is based on six pillars: AI Innovation Ecosystem, Awareness and Readiness, Secure AI Ecosystem, Transformation and Evolution, AI Infrastructure, and International Partnerships and Collaborations.

The policy will act as a guiding framework, coordinating scattered initiatives and fostering new ones across sectors. Current AI development efforts remain fragmented, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities.

A unified policy will align investments in research, talent, infrastructure, and ethical guidelines, creating an environment conducive to innovation. It will also encourage collaboration between academia, industry, and government, ensuring AI solutions are tailored to Pakistan’s unique needs and challenges.