Global giant Meta is looking to work with Pakistan in artificial intelligence (AI), digital trade, and e-commerce as part of the government’s new digital transformation plans.
The development took place during a meeting in Islamabad between Meta’s Director for Public Policy (South Asia), Rafael Frankel, and Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan. Both sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation in AI, digital skills training, and small business support.
Minister Jam Kamal Khan welcomed Meta’s team and praised its efforts in supporting Pakistan’s journey toward digital progress. He noted that Pakistan’s digital economy is growing rapidly, driven by young professionals, expanding connectivity, and a strong IT talent pool producing over 75,000 graduates every year.
The minister informed the delegation that Pakistan’s IT and ITeS exports grew by 18% in FY2025 to reach $3.8 billion, while in the first quarter of FY2026, exports rose 21% year-on-year to $1.06 billion.
He shared that the government is finalizing the National E-Commerce Policy 2.0 (2025–2030), aiming to expand the market to $20 billion by 2030. The new policy focuses on MSME digitization, improving logistics, and promoting cross-border trade.
Jam Kamal Khan invited Meta to join the Ministry’s IT Sectoral Council to collaborate on AI ethics, digital safety and e-commerce standards. He also proposed a Meta–Pakistan E-Commerce Accelerator Pilot to help young entrepreneurs build digital businesses.
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Rafael Frankel appreciated Pakistan’s progress in the tech sector and expressed Meta’s interest in expanding cooperation in AI-based innovation, online safety, and digital entrepreneurship. He reaffirmed Meta’s support through initiatives like Meta Boost, which provides training in digital marketing and responsible online practices.
Both sides agreed to continue working together to promote innovation, safe online behavior, and economic growth through technology.
