The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has proposed Rs 24.39 billion for seven ongoing projects under the Public Sector Development program (PSDP) for 2026-27.
No new project has been proposed for the upcoming fiscal year, with the focus remaining on completing and accelerating existing initiatives aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and export capacity.
The development portfolio includes technology park expansion in Islamabad, establishment of an IT Park in Karachi, startup ecosystem support, semiconductor human resource development, and export compliance initiatives. Officials say most projects are currently in documentation and PC-I preparation stages and will move forward for approval in due course.
The flagship Pakistan Software Export Board IT Park in Islamabad has achieved 72% physical completion and over 62% financial utilisation. Around PKR 14.5 billion has already been spent out of a total estimated cost of PKR 23.3 billion. For 2026-27, PKR 6.730 billion has been demanded. The facility is designed to accommodate nearly 120 startups and SMEs, featuring incubation centres, testing labs, conference facilities, and a Tier-3 data centre. Officials expect it to create more than 5,000 direct and indirect jobs while boosting IT exports.
Karachi IT Park Faces Delays
In contrast, progress on the Karachi IT Park remains slow, with only 10% physical and 5% financial completion so far against a projected cost of PKR 31.2 billion. A relatively small allocation of PKR 11.500 million has been proposed for the next fiscal year.
Design work has been completed by a Korean consultant, environmental clearance secured from SEPA, and aviation clearance obtained from PAA. However, contractor procurement has been delayed following two unsuccessful tenders, with re-tendering now tied to financing approvals from K-Exim Bank.
Startup, Semiconductor and Freelance Push
To strengthen the innovation ecosystem, PKR 1.802 billion has been proposed for startup and venture support initiatives. The Pakistan Startup Fund has operationalised its advisory and grant disbursement framework, with applications currently under review.
Additionally, PKR 1.017 billion has been proposed for the National Semiconductor HR Development Program to build advanced technical capacity in chip design and related fields.
Under the e-Rozgaar Pakistan programme, 80 centres have been established across 30 districts, providing over 6,500 freelancer workstations. Authorities report strong nationwide engagement, alongside expanding training, internships, and certification reimbursement schemes. These combined efforts aim to expand Pakistan’s digital workforce, increase export-driven IT growth, and improve startup financing access. However, delays in large-scale infrastructure projects highlight ongoing execution challenges within the sector.
