Shehbaz Sharif Directs Faster Implementation of AI Partnership with Alibaba
Prime minister calls for measurable results in exports, agriculture, healthcare and digital governance, setting a November deadline for ministries to report progress.
AI Partnership between Pakistan and Alibaba aims to support exports, agriculture, healthcare and digital governance
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for faster implementation of Pakistan’s strategic partnership with Alibaba, saying artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalisation can strengthen exports, improve public services and support economic development.
The prime minister chaired a meeting in Islamabad on Wednesday to review progress on AI and digital technology across the economy and government. According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), he stressed the need to turn cooperation with the global technology company into practical results.
“The secret to Pakistan’s development lies in artificial intelligence and digitalisation,” the PMO quoted him as saying.
Shehbaz said modern technology could improve trade, exports, agricultural productivity, the business environment and the quality of public services.
AI Projects Planned for Healthcare and Agriculture
The prime minister welcomed Alibaba’s cooperation in facilitating Pakistani agricultural exports to Chinese markets. He also highlighted plans to introduce automation and AI-based solutions in agriculture.
He directed the authorities to implement an AI-assisted cancer early-detection system at the earliest opportunity in collaboration with Alibaba.
The meeting also reviewed work on AI-based agricultural models, tobacco track-and-trace technology and digital platforms to facilitate exports of citrus fruits and olives.
The PMO said these initiatives formed part of broader efforts to use technology to improve productivity and expand access to international markets.
IT Training Programme for Graduates
Shehbaz directed the Ministry of Information Technology to launch a 15-day AI training programme for IT graduates under the Ignite programme, in collaboration with Alibaba.
He said Pakistan should use its partnership with the company to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) reach international customers and create opportunities for technology-led growth.
The government and Alibaba signed a memorandum of understanding at the company’s headquarters in Hangzhou during the prime minister’s visit to China in May.
The prime minister asked the relevant ministries to set clear targets and timelines for the partnership’s projects. He also directed them to complete the necessary measures by November and submit a progress report.
Digital Tools for Trade and Petroleum Monitoring
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) has been directed to introduce an analytics system to monitor the petroleum products supply chain with Alibaba’s support. The PMO said AI tools were being provided to assist the regulator.
The Export Promotion Board was also instructed to work with Alibaba to help increase Pakistan’s exports.
According to the PMO, a dedicated Pakistan pavilion is already operating on Alibaba’s platform to promote locally made products in international markets. A digital system for verifying trade documents through Pakistan Single Window has also become operational.
Meanwhile, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and Alibaba are launching a two-year programme to provide SMEs with access to international markets, training and e-commerce opportunities.
Data Platform and Digital Governance Initiatives
The meeting reviewed progress on an advanced data platform and a central data hub for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Pakistan Revenue Automation Limited (PRAL).
Officials also discussed a proposed pilot project for AI-assisted cancer diagnosis. Other initiatives involving higher education, railways, postal services and urban administration were described as being in their final stages of completion.
Shehbaz directed the relevant authorities to monitor every project closely and ensure the partnership delivered measurable outcomes.
Pakistan Expands Its AI Cooperation
Pakistan has also backed China’s initiative to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO). During his May visit to China, Shehbaz expressed support for international cooperation aimed at developing AI for public benefit.
In July, Pakistan became a founding member of WAICO after Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar signed the agreement establishing the organisation in Shanghai.
Earlier this year, Shehbaz announced a government plan to invest $1 billion in AI by 2030.
The latest review reflects the government’s stated intention to expand AI use across trade, agriculture, healthcare and public administration. The impact of these initiatives will depend on their implementation, funding, oversight and ability to deliver practical benefits.
