ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, announced the official opening of Google’s office in Pakistan, marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital development. The Minister emphasized that this event signifies a new chapter for Pakistan’s technology sector, demonstrating increased global confidence and offering fresh opportunities for local talent, particularly among youth, developers, and entrepreneurs.
According to Press Information Department, the Minister credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership for this achievement, highlighting his commitment to advancing Pakistan’s digital transformation. The opening of Google’s office is seen as a result of his efforts to build a robust digital ecosystem. The Special Investment Facilitation Council, led by the Prime Minister and the Chief of Army Staff, played a crucial role in this development, along with contributions from the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication. The Minister also expressed gratitude to Google’s Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy, Mr. Wilson White, and US Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker.
The Minister detailed ongoing collaborations with Google, including the awarding of over 350,000 Career Certificate scholarships in digital and AI skills, training for 50,000 developers in generative AI and cloud technologies, and support for local gaming and app studios. Additionally, a domestic Chromebook assembly line with a capacity of 500,000 devices is being established, alongside digital-literacy initiatives for students and educators.
Highlighting the government’s support for the technology sector, the Minister noted concessional tax rates for IT exports and an 18% increase in ICT export remittances, reaching US$ 417 million in July FY 2026-27. The ICT industry recorded a trade surplus of US$ 344 million during the same period, accounting for a significant portion of total ICT export remittances, positively impacting Pakistan’s economy.
In closing, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding digital initiatives in collaboration with the private sector and international tech companies, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for a digital Pakistan.