TLDR: Pakistan has officially launched its National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025, an ambitious framework designed to transform the nation into a knowledge-based economy. The policy aims to train one million AI professionals, foster innovation through dedicated funds, and implement thousands of AI-driven projects, projecting significant economic growth and job creation while addressing the country’s position in the global tech landscape.
In a landmark move to position itself as a key player in the global digital arena, Pakistan’s federal cabinet unanimously approved the National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025 in late July 2025. Chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the decision marks a pivotal step in the government’s broader ‘Digital Pakistan’ agenda, aiming to cultivate a comprehensive AI ecosystem within the country.
The policy is structured around a six-pillar framework, encompassing AI innovation, public awareness, secure systems, sectoral transformation, infrastructure development, and international partnerships. Its primary objectives are to democratize access to advanced technological tools, modernize public services, and generate high-tech employment and innovation opportunities for Pakistan’s burgeoning youth population.
Key initiatives outlined in the policy are ambitious and far-reaching. A central goal is to train one million AI professionals by 2030, supported by 3,000 annual AI scholarships until 2028, and the establishment of Centers of Excellence in AI across major cities. To stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship, the policy introduces an AI Innovation Fund and an AI Venture Fund, designed to attract private sector participation and support local AI startups and research. The government also plans to implement 50,000 AI-driven civic projects and support the development of 1,000 local AI products within the next five years.
Economic projections highlight the transformative potential of this policy, with AI adoption expected to boost Pakistan’s GDP by up to 12% and create over 3.5 million new jobs by 2030. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, ‘Our youth are Pakistan’s greatest asset. Providing them with education, skills, and equal opportunities in AI is a top priority.’ He added that ‘AI will not only modernise our economy but also enhance productivity across agriculture, public services, and governance.’
The policy also prioritizes inclusive growth, creating specific opportunities for women and differently-abled persons through accessible education and financing, ensuring that talent from all backgrounds contributes to the AI sector. An AI Council, chaired by the federal IT minister, will oversee the policy’s implementation through a detailed master plan and action matrix, with representation from academia, industry, provincial governments, and civil society.
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While the policy is widely welcomed as a crucial step, some experts have pointed out areas for further consideration. Concerns include the existing limitations in Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, the digital divide, and the potential environmental impact of large data centers, particularly in a water-stressed country. There is also a call for specific provisions to develop machine-learning models in Pakistan’s diverse local languages to ensure inclusive expansion of AI tools. Nevertheless, the National AI Policy 2025 represents a significant commitment by Pakistan to leverage artificial intelligence for national development and to secure its position in an increasingly competitive global tech landscape.
