PM Shehbaz Sharif has set a strong $4.6 billion target for Pakistan’s IT exports this fiscal year. The decision was fueled by a massive rise in internet connectivity across the country. The government is pushing forward with its “Digital Pakistan” vision through a successful $509 million 5G auction and new fiber-optic links for schools. The aim is to make Pakistan a global hub for freelancers.
On Monday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired an important review meeting in Islamabad to assess the performance of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication. During the session, he formally approved the $4.6 billion export target for the IT sector.
The decision follows a sharp rise in internet connections. It increased from 1.9 million in 2024 to more than 5.1 million by early 2026. The PM said that giving young people access to technology remains a top government priority, as it can help generate valuable foreign exchange for the country.
Officials shared that the recent 5G spectrum auction, one of the biggest in the region since 2016, brought in $509 million in immediate revenue. The rollout of 5G is expected to provide the high speed infrastructure needed for software development and artificial intelligence projects.
To strengthen digital infrastructure, the government has completed fiber-optic connections for government schools and health units in Islamabad. Free public Wi-Fi zones are now in the final phase of testing.
Including Villages in this Digital Revolution
The government is also making sure rural areas benefit from this digital growth. New “E-learning pods” are being set up in remote villages to give young people internet access and digital learning tools.
These facilities are designed so the rural youth can develop modern digital skills and compete in the global freelance market. The initiative is part of a wider plan to expand the IT sector beyond major cities such as Karachi and Lahore.
Officials also highlighted that Indus AI Week, held earlier this year, attracted more than 100 international delegates. It shows growing global confidence in Pakistan’s technology sector. By combining modern infrastructure with skill development programs, the government hopes to build a sustainable digital economy and move closer to its long-term export target of $30 billion.
