US technology giant Meta is exploring collaboration with Pakistan in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), digital trade, and e-commerce. The move aligns with the government’s new digital transformation initiatives aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s digital economy.
A delegation from Meta, led by Rafael Frankel, Director for Public Policy (South Asia), met with Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan in Islamabad. The meeting focused on expanding cooperation in emerging technologies, digital skills training, and small and medium enterprise (SME) empowerment.
During the meeting, Jam Kamal Khan welcomed the Meta team and acknowledged the company’s role in supporting Pakistan’s digital development. He said that Pakistan’s digital economy is one of the fastest-growing in South Asia, supported by a young population, improved connectivity, and a strong IT talent base producing over 75,000 graduates annually.
The commerce minister briefed the delegation on the government’s initiatives to boost e-commerce, promote IT exports, and integrate AI technologies into the national economy. He shared that Pakistan’s IT and ITeS exports rose 18% in FY2025 to $3.8 billion, while the first quarter of FY2026 recorded $1.06 billion, up 21% year-on-year.
He also discussed the National E-Commerce Policy 2.0 (2025–2030), which aims to grow Pakistan’s e-commerce market to $20 billion by 2030. The policy focuses on digitising MSMEs, improving logistics, and promoting cross-border trade.
The minister invited Meta to collaborate on projects related to AI ethics, digital safety, and e-commerce standards under the Ministry’s IT Sectoral Council. He also proposed a Meta–Pakistan E-Commerce Accelerator Pilot to help young entrepreneurs and digital startups.
Rafael Frankel praised Pakistan’s digital transformation progress and reaffirmed Meta’s commitment to supporting the country through programs like Meta Boost, which focus on digital skills, online safety, and responsible marketing.
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Both sides agreed to continue working together to promote innovation, strengthen digital trade, and expand opportunities in Pakistan’s growing tech ecosystem.
