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The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) is resisting a much-anticipated move to create an AI regulator in Pakistan as it has cited the country’s lack of a robust AI ecosystem as the reason behind its argument.
The IT Ministry emphasized that while AI in Pakistan presents immense opportunities for economic and technological growth, it also brings associated risks. Globally, over 50 countries have introduced national AI strategies, though fewer than 10 have implemented AI-specific regulations.
The ministry also highlighted the need to focus on foundational elements such as data governance, availability, and protection as prerequisites for establishing a robust AI ecosystem in Pakistan.
It is worth mentioning that the leadership for AI development in Pakistan is currently shared by the Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives (MoPDSI) and the Minister of State for IT & Telecom.
To address AI opportunities and challenges, the MoPDSI has formed an inclusive task force with representatives from the public sector, industry, and academia to develop a National AI Plan. Similarly, the IT Ministry has established an AI Committee to finalize the National AI Policy and promote an enabling environment for AI growth.
The ministry stressed the importance of engaging provincial stakeholders to ensure a holistic approach. Both the AI task force and the policy committee agreed that Pakistan should prioritize building the infrastructure and capabilities needed for AI before introducing regulations. While the draft National AI Policy outlines the idea of an AI regulator, it suggests a phased approach to its implementation.
