Government measures for the promotion of digital economy

The world has entered the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where the digital economy has become the main pillar of progress and prosperity. Trade, education, healthcare, energy, the financial sector, and even governance are considered incomplete without digital infrastructure. Developed countries have shaped their policies with a digital economy in mind, and now developing countries are also moving rapidly in this direction. Pakistan, which ranks among the countries with the largest youth populations in the world, holds immense potential in this field. This is why the government has taken numerous measures in recent years that directly contribute to the growth of the digital economy and align the country with global demands.

The promotion of the digital economy begins with e-governance, since without it, transparency in the state system and public convenience cannot be achieved. In Pakistan, the government has gradually introduced online systems in public institutions. The tax filing and return process has become largely online, which has not only facilitated taxpayers but also reduced corruption.

Similarly, a “One Window Portal” has been introduced for business registration and the acquisition of other government licenses, saving both time and cost. Land records in Punjab and Sindh have been digitized, helping to reduce disputes that had been ongoing for decades. These measures reflect the government’s seriousness in modernizing the administrative structure and providing convenience to the people.

The true spirit of the digital economy lies in the digitization of the financial system. The State Bank of Pakistan has introduced a modern and secure system called “Raast,” which ensures real-time, low-cost payments. Through it, citizens can easily send and receive money via mobile phones. This initiative has simplified financial transactions for small businesses and ordinary citizens while also helping to curb the black economy.

The government has encouraged mobile banking and fintech companies to expand financial services to rural areas. Platforms like Easypaisa, JazzCash, and other digital wallets have brought millions into the formal economy. These initiatives mark a major step toward increasing financial inclusion and documenting the economy.

E-commerce in Pakistan is growing rapidly and has now become a multibillion-dollar market. To further organize this growth, the government introduced the “E-commerce Policy 2019,” which focused on consumer rights protection, laws for online trade, and improvements in the logistics system.

Pakistan Post is being revamped on modern lines to play a key role in e-commerce parcel delivery. Similarly, global organizations and local startups have been encouraged to invest and form partnerships. As a result of these policies, Pakistani products-particularly textiles, handicrafts, and IT services-are reaching international markets.

The most valuable asset of the digital economy is human capital. Pakistan has one of the world’s largest youth populations, and if properly trained, it can significantly improve the country’s position in the global economy. For this purpose, the government launched the “DigiSkills” program, through which millions of young people have been trained in freelancing, graphic design, web development, digital marketing, and other IT skills.

In addition, digital universities and online learning platforms have been established in higher education institutions. Young people are being educated in modern subjects like artificial intelligence, robotics, data science, and cybersecurity. These initiatives highlight the government’s recognition of digital skills as the foundation of the economy’s future.

The biggest challenge to the promotion of the digital economy is trust and security. If data and financial transactions are not secure, both the public and investors will hesitate to adopt the system. To address this, the government has introduced the “Data Protection Act” and reformed cybercrime laws. National-level cybersecurity institutions have been set up to protect critical digital infrastructure from attacks.

Moreover, measures have been taken to register online platforms and regulate digital companies, creating a transparent and secure digital environment. These steps have also increased global investors’ confidence that Pakistan’s digital framework is aligned with international standards.

The application of the digital economy is not limited to finance or trade; it is also impacting sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and energy. The government has introduced mobile apps for farmers to access information on weather conditions, fertilizer prices, and market rates. This has not only boosted productivity but also improved their incomes.

In healthcare, telemedicine projects have been introduced, especially for rural areas where access to basic facilities is difficult. Patients can now consult doctors online and receive primary healthcare. In the energy sector, smart metering and green technologies are being promoted to reduce energy wastage and increase reliance on alternative sources.

Global cooperation is essential to promote the digital economy. Pakistan has focused on enhancing partnerships with various countries and international organizations. Under CPEC, investments in digital infrastructure are being made with China. Agreements in the IT sector with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and cooperation with the European Union on cyber laws, are all part of this effort.

Similarly, steps have been taken to improve Pakistan’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business Index to attract foreign investors. Transparency in the tax system, protection of intellectual property rights, and the establishment of funds for digital startups have been introduced. As a result of these policies, Pakistan is emerging as a growing digital market in the region.

The current government’s efforts are commendable, but the challenges are significant. Lack of high-speed internet in rural areas, inconsistency in policies, and traditional bureaucracy in government institutions are slowing down the pace of digital transformation. Moreover, a large portion of the population is still deprived of digital literacy.

To address these challenges, the government has devised a comprehensive strategy. Under the National Broadband Policy, internet access is being expanded to rural and underdeveloped areas. Work is underway to include digital literacy in school and college curricula. Special committees have also been formed to strengthen policy continuity and legislation.

The government’s measures to promote the digital economy are the result of an integrated and forward-looking policy. Initiatives such as e-governance, digital payments, e-commerce, education, cyber security, sustainable development, and global cooperation have given the country a new direction. If these reforms continue with consistency and effective implementation, Pakistan can not only build a transparent and modern economy domestically but also play a prominent role in the global digital economy.

In the digital era, only those countries will succeed that adopt technology in time. Pakistan has set the right direction, and now the need is to continue this journey with determination and consistency. In the future, the digital economy can prove to be a guarantee of development, prosperity, and stability for Pakistan.