Meta to train 1,000 Pakistani SMEs in AI, digital business tools

Meta will train 1,000 Pakistani small and medium-sized enterprises in digital business, artificial intelligence and online marketing under its Small Business Growth Academy, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.

The programme will be delivered free of cost across Pakistan between August and November 2026 by local partner AtomCamp through physical and online sessions.

The initiative was discussed during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and a Meta delegation led by Ms. Tehara Punchihewa, Asia-Pacific Public Policy, and Ms. Vivian Liang, Policy Programs Manager, Asia-Pacific.

Meta said the programme would focus on the use of its digital platforms, AI-powered business tools and online marketing strategies. It is also intended to improve digital skills, expand market access and support women entrepreneurs and businesses in smaller cities.

Jam Kamal Khan welcomed the initiative and invited Meta to expand its engagement with Pakistan’s digital economy agenda, particularly in e-commerce, digital trade, SME development and digital literacy.

He said the government was placing digitalisation at the centre of its reform programme and was pursuing technology-led improvements in governance, public services and economic competitiveness.

The minister informed the delegation that Pakistan was finalising a comprehensive E-Commerce Policy, while work on an Artificial Intelligence Policy was also underway.

He said AI should be used not only as a conversational tool but also for policy analysis, data-driven decision-making, business intelligence and improved public-sector efficiency.

Jam Kamal Khan said the Ministry of Commerce was increasingly focused on using technology to support exports, strengthen market intelligence and improve coordination with international markets through Pakistan’s overseas trade missions.

He added that Pakistan’s young population, growing smartphone use and expanding digital economy offered opportunities for technology companies to help entrepreneurs benefit from online platforms.

The minister said many Pakistani businesses had entered digital markets but still lacked practical knowledge of AI, social media and other tools needed to expand sales and exports.

He encouraged Meta to work with the Directorate General of Trade Organizations, chambers of commerce, trade associations and business groups to broaden the programme’s reach.

The Ministry of Commerce would facilitate introductions and institutional links across the business community, he said.

Jam Kamal Khan also invited Meta to maintain regular contact with the ministry and explore further cooperation on digital skills and SME capacity building.

He noted that Pakistan had already developed digital partnerships with global technology companies, including Alibaba and Google.

The Meta delegation welcomed the proposed coordination with the Directorate General of Trade Organizations and other business stakeholders. Both sides agreed to continue engagement on SME development and digital skills.