ISLAMABAD:
The National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication on Thursday saw heated debate over the Ministry of IT’s role in promoting IT exports, with committee member Dr. Zulfiqar sharply questioning the ministry’s performance.
Dr. Zulfiqar criticised claims by the ministry about boosting IT exports, saying, “IT exports are increasing only because freelancers are working day and night. I am tired of hearing the ministry claim credit for it.” He added that the ministry’s actual contribution to export growth remains unclear.
Responding, the IT Secretary said the global trend shows that IT export growth is primarily driven by the private sector. “The ministry provides guidance, but the bulk of exports comes from private enterprises,” he said.
Dr. Zulfiqar pressed further, arguing that private sector IT investors face obstacles and lack adequate support from the ministry. “I have personally submitted multiple IT project proposals to the ministry, called them, and received no response,” he said, highlighting gaps in government engagement with the sector.
The discussion underscored ongoing concerns about effective government facilitation in promoting Pakistan’s IT exports, especially the role of the ministry in supporting private sector initiatives.
