ICMA Calls for Turning Google’s Pakistan Entry into a Digital Growth Opportunity

KARACHI, September 10, 2026: The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Pakistan (ICMA) has identified Google’s expanding presence in Pakistan as an opportunity to accelerate digital transformation, strengthen human capital and build a stronger digital export ecosystem.

In its latest Economic Signal, titled “Can Pakistan Turn Google’s Entry into a Digital Growth Opportunity?”, ICMA outlined several areas that could help Pakistan gain broader economic benefits from the growing presence of global technology companies.

ICT Exports Show Strong Growth

The report noted that Pakistan’s ICT export earnings increased from US$1.44 billion in FY2020 to US$4.18 billion in FY2026.

ICT export remittances also reached US$417 million in July FY2027, showing an 18% year-on-year increase.

ICMA also highlighted Pakistan’s young population as a major economic opportunity. The country has around 46.3 million people aged 15–24, creating significant potential for developing a globally competitive digital workforce.

AI Could Create Major Economic Opportunities

The report further highlighted the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Pakistan’s economy.

According to ICMA, AI could add an estimated PKR 4.4 trillion to Gross Value Added (GVA) and create an estimated US$11.55 billion export opportunity.

The institute said these opportunities could help Pakistan expand beyond traditional technology services and develop a stronger position in global digital markets.

Stronger Industry-Academia Links Needed

However, ICMA cautioned that the presence of multinational technology companies alone will not guarantee broad-based economic gains.

The institute called for stronger industry-academia linkages to ensure that education and training programmes meet the needs of the technology sector.

It also urged the government to introduce demand-driven digital skills programmes, predictable tax policies and regulatory incentives.

Focus on Startups, Research and Technology Exports

ICMA also stressed the need for greater support for startups, research, intellectual property and technology exports.

The institute said Pakistan should use the growing presence of global technology companies to develop local capabilities and create long-term economic value.

The strategic objective, according to ICMA, should be to move Pakistan from a technology-consuming market toward a digital production, innovation and export hub.

The institute said this approach could help transform Pakistan’s growing digital economy into a stronger source of employment, investment and export earnings.