Pakistan’s newly launched National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy could add between 7 and 12 percent to GDP by 2030. It also has the potential to create nearly one million jobs, according to Dr. Anil Salman, Chair of the government’s AI Policy Committee.
Speaking at a seminar hosted by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), Dr. Salman called the policy bold, ethical, and transformative. He emphasized its inclusive vision across economic, social, and technological areas.
The event, themed “Bridging Gaps in Pakistan’s AI Roadmap: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Way Forward,” brought together key policymakers and industry leaders. The panel featured Dr. Anil Salman, Dr. Najibullah from the Planning Commission, Techvention CEO Suniya Shahid, and Atomcamp CEO Dr. Naveed Iftikhar, who joined via Zoom. Wajid Islam, Research Economist at PIDE, moderated the discussion.
Dr. Salman noted that the policy was shaped after wide consultation with local and global stakeholders, including UNESCO, ADB, and the Commonwealth.
Dr. Najibullah highlighted the financial ecosystem and the urgent need for venture capital and accelerators. He announced a Rs. 2 billion Public Venture Capital Fund and urged collaboration with global accelerators. He pointed to opportunities in agriculture, health, and education but warned of obstacles like poor data infrastructure, weak payment systems, and cybersecurity gaps.
Suniya Shahid provided the industry’s perspective, stressing AI adoption in healthcare. She also pushed for ethical auditing, AI funds for women-led startups, and retraining displaced workers. Shahid warned that without localized datasets, Pakistan would face persistent implementation challenges.
Speaking remotely, Dr. Naveed Iftikhar underlined the gap between policy and adoption. He stressed that AI integration in government, universities, and industries remains slow. He also called for urgent upskilling in civil services, academia, and public organizations. Partnerships with Saudi Arabia, China, and major global data centers, he argued, could fill Pakistan’s infrastructure gap.
Dr. Nasir Iqbal, Associate Professor and Registrar at PIDE, analyzed the macroeconomic impact. He said the policy’s success must be measured by productivity, inclusivity, and competitiveness. He also warned that AI could deepen inequality or promote monopolies if not applied inclusively.
Iqbal urged policymakers to look beyond a project-based model. He suggested reforms like a “two-minute business registration” process and village economic zones to empower rural women and communities.
The seminar ended with consensus: Pakistan’s AI policy sets the right direction but demands long-term commitment. Its success will rely on consistent cooperation between government, industry, academia, and international partners.