Pakistan is moving forward with plans to establish its first Pakistan Council of Digital Economy, a government-backed initiative designed to strengthen the country’s expanding digital sector. The council aims to create a structured institutional framework that supports digital businesses while facilitating the overall growth of the digital economy. Officials say the initiative will provide a formal platform for digital companies to collaborate, share insights, and engage with government authorities on sector-specific issues.
According to sources, Pakistan Digital Authority is leading efforts to form the council, modeling it on the lines of a chamber of commerce for digital enterprises. The proposed platform is intended to represent digital companies operating across various segments of the economy, including e-commerce, fintech, online services, and emerging digital technologies. By consolidating representation, the council is expected to act as a bridge between private sector participants and government stakeholders, enabling structured consultation on policies, regulatory frameworks, taxation, and other matters affecting online business operations.
Prime Minister is expected to inaugurate the Pakistan Council of Digital Economy once the foundational framework is finalized. Officials highlighted that the council will focus on creating a collaborative ecosystem where private companies can voice challenges, share opportunities, and contribute to shaping policies that affect the digital sector. Through this mechanism, private sector input will be systematically incorporated into the decision-making process, ensuring that regulations and support structures reflect the needs of industry participants. The move signals growing recognition of the private sector’s role in advancing Pakistan’s digital economy and promoting innovation.
Pakistan Digital Authority has already engaged in consultations with approximately 40 private digital companies as part of the preparatory process. These discussions aim to gather perspectives on operational hurdles, investment opportunities, and strategies for scaling digital solutions across the country. By fostering greater private sector participation, the council intends to create an environment conducive to technological innovation and digital investment. Analysts suggest that this initiative could help standardize collaboration between government and businesses, offering structured support to startups, established digital firms, and emerging technology innovators.
Overall, the establishment of Pakistan Council of Digital Economy marks a step toward consolidating governance, policy-making, and sector-wide collaboration within Pakistan’s digital ecosystem. By providing a dedicated forum for private sector engagement, the council is expected to enhance coordination on regulatory matters, enable faster adoption of digital technologies, and strengthen the country’s position as a growing hub for digital enterprise and innovation.
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