Pakistan’s National AI Policy Still in Limbo Despite Year-Long Deliberations

ISLAMABAD: Despite more than a year of discussions, Pakistan’s National AI Policy remains unfinished as the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has yet to finalize the framework. The policy is still in its draft stage, with ongoing consultations among key stakeholders.

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly evolving worldwide, prompting governments to develop regulatory frameworks to maximize its benefits while mitigating associated risks. Sources indicate that the draft policy is still under review, with discussions ongoing to refine its provisions.

Since June 2023, the Ministry of IT and Telecom has made the draft policy available on its website for feedback from all stakeholders. To ensure a well-rounded approach, an Artificial Intelligence Policy Committee—comprising experts from industry, academia, civil society, and government—has been established to oversee consultations and finalize the policy.

Currently, Pakistan lacks an AI-specific regulatory framework. However, several initiatives, including the National Cyber Security Policy 2021, Pakistan Cloud First Policy 2022, and CERT Rules 2023, address various AI-related challenges. Additionally, sector-specific regulations, such as the Critical Telecom Data and Infrastructure Security Regulation (CTDISR), contribute to AI governance.

The upcoming Data Governance Policy aims to create a seamless data-sharing environment under the Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP). A key component of the AI policy is the establishment of an AI Regulatory Directorate and a Center of Excellence in AI, which will assess and regulate AI-generated and processed data.

The National AI Policy seeks to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework that fosters innovation while addressing potential risks. By balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations, the policy aims to ensure AI development benefits society as a whole.