ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Friday stated that Pakistan’s future economic competitiveness is inextricably linked to the rapid adoption of robotics, automation, and emerging technologies. Emphasizing that industrial automation has transitioned from an option to a core national necessity, the minister underscored that traditional industries must evolve to remain viable in the global market.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the two-day Indus RAS (Robotics and Autonomous Systems) Expo 2026, held at the Pak-China Friendship Centre in Islamabad, the minister remarked, “If Pakistan wants to remain economically competitive, every traditional industry must move towards automation.” She stressed that reliance solely on fiscal incentives, such as tax or energy cost reductions, would prove insufficient unless industries integrate robotics and automation into their core manufacturing, agriculture, and supply chain frameworks.

The event drew significant public interest, attracting more than 20,000 visitors, including students, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders. Shaza Fatima attributed the success of the expo to the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose support for digital transformation has been instrumental in accelerating the national innovation agenda. She acknowledged the roles played by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, the National Technology Fund (Ignite), and the National Centre for Robotics and Automation in executing the event.

The Transition to a Knowledge-Based Economy

The minister noted that the global economic landscape is shifting from traditional industrial models to knowledge-based economies driven by artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, blockchain, and robotics. She highlighted that the Indus RAS Expo follows the momentum established by the recent Indus AI Week, serving as a platform to initiate a national dialogue on sustainable economic growth.

Warning against the risks of inaction, Shaza Fatima highlighted that countries failing to adopt these technologies risk falling behind, particularly as “dark factories”—fully automated facilities operating without human labor—become standard worldwide. She urged farmers, exporters, and manufacturers to modernize their production systems, noting that the Ministry of Industries and Production and the Ministry of Commerce are actively collaborating to promote this technological shift through upcoming industrial roadshows.

Showcasing Indigenous Technological Capability

Reflecting on the expo’s reach, the minister noted that while 500 companies applied to exhibit, logistical constraints limited participation to 54 firms. The diverse range of indigenous technology on display included robotic prosthetic limbs, drone-control software, AI-powered robots, and advanced military and logistics systems. This exhibition served to confirm that Pakistan possesses the technical depth to become a regional leader in autonomous systems.

Regarding government support, Shaza Fatima highlighted two key initiatives announced by the Prime Minister: “Elevate” and “Spark,” backed by a $20 million fund to foster the startup ecosystem. Furthermore, she announced plans to establish an “Experience Centre” for simulation technologies. This center is designed to provide businesses with the resources to model manufacturing processes and assembly lines, demonstrating that automation is an investment that yields high returns through increased productivity.

Addressing the Future of Employment

The minister addressed concerns regarding the impact of automation on the labor market, dismissing fears of widespread job displacement. “Machines will not take people’s jobs,” she stated, explaining that technological advancement redefines the nature of employment. She encouraged students to pursue careers in mechatronics, mathematics, and electrical engineering, noting that the development of a skilled, innovation-driven workforce is essential for securing the “Jobs of the Future” and ensuring long-term national prosperity.