

Pakistan could add up to $80bn to GDP within five years through digital transformation under the National Digital Master Plan, the PDA told lawmakers.
Pakistan could increase its national GDP by between $60 billion and $80bn over the next five years if it successfully accelerates digital transformation, according to the Pakistan Digital Authority (PDA).
The Authority presented the projection to a parliamentary standing committee while outlining its mandate, strategic priorities and the National Digital Master Plan. The briefing also covered the potential impact of digital technologies on the economy, society and government institutions.
Developed in consultation with provincial governments and relevant sector stakeholders, the National Digital Master Plan has already received approval from the National Digital Commission, which has directed authorities to proceed with its implementation.
The plan is organised around three areas: Digital Society, Digital Economy and Digital Governance.
The Digital Society component is intended to broaden public access to digital services and support a more inclusive digital environment. Under the Digital Economy pillar, the government plans to encourage technological adoption and digital innovation across businesses and economic sectors.
Digital Governance, meanwhile, is focused on using digital tools to improve the functioning of public institutions, strengthen transparency and enhance the delivery of government services.
To translate the plan into specific actions, the PDA will develop a detailed digital roadmap containing key performance indicators and implementation guidelines. The roadmap is expected to provide federal and provincial bodies, as well as sector stakeholders, with a common framework for carrying out digitalisation projects.
Government departments and institutions will be required to bring their digital initiatives into line with the National Digital Master Plan. The coordinated approach is intended to reduce fragmentation and ensure that digital projects undertaken by different public bodies support common national objectives.
During the briefing, the PDA highlighted the potential economic gains from implementing the plan effectively. It estimated that faster adoption of digital technologies could contribute an additional $60bn to $80bn to Pakistan’s GDP over a five-year period.
The Authority said its role would include providing strategic direction and helping coordinate digital development across the country.
The broader programme is aimed at expanding Pakistan’s digital economy, improving public-sector performance and widening citizens’ access to digital services as the country pursues its digital transformation agenda.
