Pakistan will host its first-ever Digital Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Forum in Islamabad on April 29-30, a historic initiative by the Government of Pakistan and the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO).
Supported by the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), the two-day event aims to attract international investment, promote digital innovation and bolster Pakistan’s ambition to achieve $60 billion in digital economic output by 2030.
Deemah AlYahya, secretary general of the DCO, said in a statement: “Pakistan’s digital ecosystem, powered by its youthful population and strategic geographic location, is a promising destination for foreign digital investors.”
Organisers expect more than 500 global investors, industry leaders and technology experts to attend, a major endorsement of Pakistan’s fast-growing digital potential that could catalyse fresh investment in fintech, artificial intelligence and agritech.
Over 75 local startups will showcase ventures ranging from blockchain-based platforms to AI-driven agritech solutions, seeking partnerships, funding and global exposure in a bid to accelerate technological advancement and entrepreneurship.
A senior SIFC official said the forum would focus on long-term partnerships, knowledge transfer and sustainable development through technology, adding: “This forum is not just about investment—it is about opening new pathways for growth.”
Observers noted that Pakistan’s collaboration with the DCO, a multilateral body dedicated to digital prosperity, reflects a strategic effort to leverage international expertise and expand access to global markets.
The forum arrives as the government intensifies digital policy reforms, updates fintech regulations and rolls out measures to facilitate startups and ensure an investor-friendly environment.
With internet penetration rising past 50% and mobile broadband subscriptions surging, officials say Pakistan is poised to emerge as a regional hub for digital transformation.
Policymakers believe that digital FDI can bolster economic resilience, drive job creation and support export growth, laying the groundwork for a knowledge-based economy.
“The forum will feature panel discussions on cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and regulatory frameworks,” said the senior official, noting that sessions would highlight best practices and showcase success stories from jurisdictions that have successfully leveraged digital FDI.
In addition to formal sessions, attendees will have networking events and one-on-one investor-startup matchmaking opportunities designed to facilitate direct engagement and deal-making, organisers said.
Registration details will be published on the SIFC website.