KARACHI: One of the largest information technology events in Pakistan, ITCN Asia 2024, is expected to create a revenue impact of $500 million this year, the top project official announced Tuesday, as a government minister vowed to spur socioeconomic development by strengthening the country’s digital ecosystem during its inauguration event.
The annual information technology and telecommunications conference has brought together IT professionals, technology companies, government officials and other stakeholders to discuss latest advancements in technology, industrial trends and explore business opportunities.
The 25th edition of the event will continue until August 29 and feature high-profile investors and entrepreneurs from the tech industry.
“ITCN Asia last year created a revenue impact of $200 million, and we expect around $500 million for this year because there are investors from 18 countries that have arrived here,” Muhammad Umair Nizam, the ITCN Asia Project Director, said.
He emphasized the event’s role in driving the country’s IT export growth.
“I think in the future, IT is the only industry that can get Pakistan out of this financial crisis very fast, and I think it’s already happening,” he added.
Participants attend the ITCN Asia 2024 conference in Karachi, Pakistan on August 27, 2024. (AN photo)
State Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima, who was also present at the gathering, emphasized the necessity of expanding the country’s knowledge-based economy.
Addressing the event’s inauguration ceremony, she highlighted Pakistan’s export growth in the sector, saying they had reached $3.22 billion that reflected the confidence of international clients in local companies.
“We are committed to holistically advancing our IT ecosystem, from crafting relevant policies and legislation to nurturing a culture of innovation,” the state minister said, adding the government’s efforts were yielding significant results, as evidenced by the IT industry’s consistent expansion.
“This growth reflects the confidence in our local companies’ ability to deliver IT solutions and services that meet the expectations of international clients,” she added.
Zohaib Khan, Chairman of the Pakistan Software House Association, emphasized the growth and quality of ITCN Asia over the years.
“ITCN Asia is, like, in its 25th year this year, and I believe that the content, the quality is improving every year,” he told Arab News.
“ITCN Asia is also collaborating with other international conferences,” he continued. “For example, the CIO [chief information officers’] conference is going to happen after two days in Pakistan, and the world’s global CIOs are coming and landing in Karachi and Pakistan to be part of this ecosystem.”
The ITCN conference this year is expected to witness over 300 speakers, 70,000 industry participants, and 350 foreign delegates, underscoring the global interest in Pakistan’s IT potential.
