Pakistan Software Export Board operating under Ministry of IT and Telecommunication is preparing to launch the National IT Industry Census, a nationwide initiative aimed at developing a comprehensive and verified data repository for Pakistan’s information technology sector. The census represents a structured effort to document the true scale and composition of the country’s IT and IT enabled services ecosystem, addressing a long standing gap in reliable industry statistics. Officials involved in the initiative described it as a foundational step toward strengthening planning and coordination across the public and private sectors.
According to PSEB, the census will collect detailed information from IT and IT enabled services companies operating across Pakistan. This includes data related to workforce size, areas of technical specialization, service offerings, geographic presence, and operational scale. By capturing this information directly from registered and active firms, the initiative aims to move away from reliance on fragmented estimates and unofficial figures that have traditionally shaped policy discussions. The creation of a unified national database is expected to provide a clearer understanding of how the IT sector is structured, where it is concentrated, and how it is evolving in different regions of the country.
The primary objective of the National IT Industry Census is to support evidence based policymaking at the federal and provincial levels. With access to verified and up to date industry data, government stakeholders are expected to be better positioned to design regulatory frameworks, incentives, and support programs that align with the actual needs of the sector. Officials indicated that insights drawn from the census will help policymakers assess the effectiveness of existing initiatives and identify areas where reforms or targeted interventions are required. This approach is also intended to strengthen coordination between public institutions and industry bodies by ensuring that decisions are informed by accurate and consistent data.
Industry stakeholders view the census as a tool that can contribute directly to the growth and competitiveness of Pakistan’s IT sector. By identifying emerging technology hubs, skill concentrations, and underserved regions, the findings are expected to guide future investments in infrastructure, training, and capacity building. The data may also support more strategic planning around IT exports, talent development, and international market positioning. Analysts believe that improved visibility into the sector’s capabilities could enhance Pakistan’s appeal to foreign investors and global clients seeking reliable technology partners.
PSEB officials stated that the results of the census will be shared with relevant government departments, policymakers, and industry organizations to enable informed decision making across the ecosystem. The initiative is positioned as a collaborative effort that relies on participation from IT firms of all sizes to accurately reflect the diversity of the sector. By establishing a standardized and verified data foundation, the National IT Industry Census is expected to play a central role in shaping future strategies for Pakistan’s digital economy and supporting sustainable growth in the technology landscape.
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