ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated on 11 November 2026 that artificial intelligence is projected to reach a $4.8 trillion global economy by 2033. Speaking at the Margalla Dialogue, she emphasized the urgent necessity for Pakistan to equip its workforce with advanced digital skills to leverage these emerging technological opportunities.

Key Points

• Artificial intelligence is expected to become a $4.8 trillion global economy by the year 2033.
• Internet speeds in Pakistan have improved by 60 per cent over the last 30 months.
• The government aims to train one million youth in AI skills and produce 10,000 AI PhDs within five years.
• Pakistan has been ranked among the top 40 countries in the 2024 ITU Global Cybersecurity Index.
• Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is directly overseeing the implementation of the Digital Nation Pakistan vision.

Economic Impacts of Artificial Intelligence

Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja noted that artificial intelligence will fundamentally transform the nature of employment rather than eliminating jobs entirely. She highlighted that individuals proficient in AI tools could realize productivity gains up to 100 times higher than those lacking such technical expertise. Consequently, the government is prioritizing human resource development to ensure a competitive national workforce.

Expanding National Digital Infrastructure

Detailing Pakistan’s progress, the minister stated that the country’s total live internet capacity has reached seven terabits per second, following an increase of two terabits. Spectrum capacity has expanded from 274 to over 750 megahertz, supporting the rise of 5G services which now serve approximately 1.8 million subscribers. Additionally, fiber-optic household coverage has grown from three million to more than six million connections, reflecting significant investment in national connectivity.

Governance and Future Strategy

The government is currently advancing the Digital Nation Pakistan Act and establishing the Pakistan Digital Authority. This entity is formulating a National Digital Master Plan encompassing key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and real estate. Furthermore, a new data governance policy is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks. For those interested in economic policy shifts, the government remains focused on sustainable growth, similar to recent efforts involving SME financing for sustainable economic growth and regulatory adjustments like the reduction of fuel prices by OGRA. To support the growing tech sector, the prime minister has authorized a $1 billion investment focused on AI infrastructure and innovation.

International Cooperation and Security

Pakistan is actively engaging in global AI governance through the UN AI Digital Compact and the Digital Cooperation Organization. Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja underscored that while Pakistan enhances its sovereign cyber defense, it is also prioritizing international collaboration on open-source models. Addressing the nation’s security posture, she noted that the country’s military success, under the leadership of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, demonstrated proficiency in both conventional and cyber warfare operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary goals of Pakistan’s new AI human resource initiative?

The government aims to train one million young people in AI-related skills and produce at least 10,000 PhDs in the field over the next five years.

How is the government supporting the local startup ecosystem?

Authorities are strengthening the startup sector by providing access to capital, offering cloud credits, and establishing a proposed fund of funds with assistance from the World Bank.