Hajra Naz
Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, is looking to work with Pakistan on new projects in AI, e-commerce, and digital trade. The move comes as Pakistan pushes to grow its digital economy and strengthen global partnerships.
A Meta team led by Rafael Frankel, Director for Public Policy in South Asia, met with Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan in Islamabad. Both sides talked about ways to build skills, support small businesses, and bring new technology to local markets.
Pakistan’s Digital Growth
Minister Jam Kamal Khan welcomed the Meta delegation and thanked them for supporting Pakistan’s digital progress. He said the country’s digital economy is one of the fastest-growing in South Asia.
He shared that more than 75,000 IT graduates join the workforce each year. This young talent pool is driving growth in software exports and digital innovation.
Pakistan’s IT and ITeS exports rose by 18% in FY2025, reaching $3.8 billion. In the first quarter of FY2026, exports jumped another 21%, hitting $1.06 billion.
Read More: Meta Launches Urdu-Based AI for Pakistan’s Digital Future
E-Commerce Expansion
The minister said Pakistan is finalizing its National E-Commerce Policy 2.0 (2025–2030). The goal is to grow the country’s e-commerce market to $20 billion by 2030.
The plan focuses on helping small and medium businesses sell online, improving delivery systems, and boosting cross-border trade.
Kamal also talked about Pakistan’s active role in regional trade groups like the SCO E-Commerce Program and MPCEPA, which are shaping new digital trade rules.
Focus on AI and Skills
The minister invited Meta to work with Pakistan’s IT Sectoral Council. He said both sides could collaborate on AI ethics, online safety, and digital business standards.
He also encouraged Meta to start training programs for young people to learn about AI and tech skills. One proposal is a Meta–Pakistan E-Commerce Accelerator, aimed at helping small business owners expand through online tools.
Meta’s Commitment
Meta’s Rafael Frankel praised Pakistan’s progress in the digital sector. He said Meta wants to help more small businesses grow with technology and responsible digital practices.
He highlighted programs like Meta Boost, which trains entrepreneurs in online marketing and safety. Frankel said Meta hopes to continue supporting local talent and small enterprises through education and innovation.
Both sides agreed to keep working together to promote innovation, safe online spaces, and economic growth through technology.
FAQs
1. What is Meta planning to do in Pakistan?
Meta wants to partner with Pakistan on AI, digital trade, and e-commerce projects to support digital transformation.
2. How is Pakistan’s digital economy growing?
It’s expanding quickly thanks to a young workforce, higher internet access, and strong growth in IT exports.
3. What is the goal of the new e-commerce policy?
The policy aims to grow Pakistan’s online market to $20 billion by 2030 and help more small businesses go digital.
4. How will Meta help young people?
Meta plans to support AI training and digital skills programs to help youth and entrepreneurs thrive online.
5. Why is this partnership important?
It can bring jobs, boost exports, and help Pakistan’s businesses compete globally through technology.
