IT experts, analysts, and industrialists have called on the government to urgently establish Software Technology Zones (STZs) and Software Technology Parks (STPs) in Karachi to enhance its status as a technology hub and boost IT and IT-enabled services (ITeS).
Despite being the economic engine of Pakistan, Karachi lacks both STZs and STPs, unlike cities such as Lahore and Islamabad.
They have urged government bodies, including the Special Technology Zone Authority (STZA) and the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), to take concrete actions to establish these facilities, rather than just planning them.
According to the private media channel, IT expert and analyst Syed Saad Ali stressed the urgent need for at least eight to ten software technology zones and several technology parks in Karachi.
“Setting up these IT facilities will significantly boost IT exports in a short period. Public sector universities must also focus on producing qualified talent, as raw talent is not sufficient for the industry,” he said.
Syed Azfar Hussain, IT analyst and Project Director at the National Incubation Centre (NIC) Karachi, emphasized the transformative impact of such innovation hubs.
“Software and IT parks are innovation centers that foster technological and economic growth by promoting collaboration and creativity. Karachi, with its entrepreneurial spirit, skilled workforce, and top universities, is perfectly positioned to benefit from such an ecosystem,” he stated.
He cited global examples such as the Research Triangle Park (RTP) in the US, Zhongguancun in Beijing, and Kista Science City in Stockholm, which have produced tech giants like Skype and Spotify.
“Establishing similar parks in Karachi could unlock immense potential, create jobs, and strengthen the city’s position as a technology powerhouse,” he added.
The President of the FPCCI, Atif Ikram Sheikh, also called for the creation of a software technology park to support IT and ITeS exports.
He noted that Karachi faces infrastructural challenges that hinder its ability to maximize IT exports and attract investment.
Abu Bakar, CEO of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), visited the FPCCI office in Karachi to discuss facilitating the business and trade communities to invest in IT companies and boost exports.
He endorsed the FPCCI’s demand for a subsidized software technology park, stating, “We are working aggressively to establish a large STP in Karachi to match its young, skilled, and motivated workforce.”
Former P@SHA Chairman Zohaib Khan proposed a collaborative approach involving PSEB, FPCCI, and business councils.
He suggested creating a joint working group with specific goals: acting as a platform for investment collaboration, exploring untapped export markets like the US and Europe, recommending swift visa issuance for IT professionals, and raising awareness about STPs and STZs.
Source: The Express Tribune
