Pakistan plans Rs283bn AI ecosystem programme

The government has proposed a Rs283 billion strategy over the next five years to develop a safe, sovereign and innovation-led artificial intelligence ecosystem.

Official records available with Wealth Pakistan reveal that the National AI Ecosystem Development Programme (NAIEDP) will be implemented from 2026 to 2031.

The government has earmarked Rs185 million for FY2026-27 to commence work on the scheme.

The program is expected to be a cornerstone of Pakistan’s larger digital transformation goal and assist position the country to tap into the developing global AI economy.

Among its major objectives, the plan intends to catalyse economic transformation and growth through use of artificial intelligence across sectors.

Furthermore, it aims to back AI companies and innovation, to stimulate the creation of a homegrown technological ecosystem, and to nurture entrepreneurship in emerging technologies.

Another important component of the strategy is sector-specific modernisation through AI applications. The program is expected to promote the application of artificial intelligence in public services, business and other economic sectors to increase efficiency and production.

The materials also describe the creation of AI governance and ethical frameworks for the proper use of the technology. The plan proposes a strategic funding window to enable a rapid reaction to emerging technological possibilities and problems.

The NAIEDP is an important step towards enhancing Pakistan’s technological competitiveness and its long-term digital growth, with an estimated expenditure of Rs283 billion by 2031.