Jam Kamal calls technology "foundational" for Pakistan’s economic future

Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan said on Friday that Pakistan must prepare for a rapidly shifting global technology landscape, describing technology as central to national development.

Speaking as chief guest at the National University of Technology (NUTECH), he said the world is going through a major technology transformation driven by artificial intelligence, data analytics, quantum computing, automation and digital platforms.

He said, “Technology is no longer optional; it is foundational,” and added that countries investing in engineering, research and technical human capital are shaping the future global economy.

The minister said AI tools are changing decision-making, research, governance and business models, and argued Pakistan must position itself proactively in an AI-driven ecosystem. He said countries that scale engineering and technical skills have advanced quickly in industrial competitiveness.

He said, “Pakistan must strengthen its engineering base, technical institutions and industry-academia collaboration to remain competitive.”

Referring to Pakistan’s mineral resources, including copper and rare earth elements, he said the country has significant untapped potential that should be utilised through modern technology and policy reforms.

He said policy frameworks must keep pace with technological change, adding, “Reforms cannot be delayed,” and cited governance reforms, industrial modernisation, agricultural transformation and digital policy upgrades as essential pillars for national progress.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting innovation ecosystems, startups, and stronger collaboration between academia, industry and policymakers. He said, “If government, universities, industry and youth move in one direction, Pakistan can achieve technological and industrial advancement within a short span of time.”