Imagine a Pakistan where small scale farmers can improve their economic well-being through tailored advisory services and higher quality input, improved access to credit and markets – all through a smartphone.

Picture a future where remote communities can access timely healthcare and quality education through digital platforms. These are just a few of the exciting possibilities that can be implemented at scale by Pakistan’s digital transformation, according to a new report, ‘Digital Now: A guide to Pakistan’s digital transformation’ from Tabadlab’s Centre for Digital Transformation (CDT).

The report highlights the potential of digital technology to improve the quality of life for Pakistanis across the board, from urban professionals to rural villagers. It provides a roadmap for Pakistan’s digital transformation, offering a framework for thinking about digital opportunities in a holistic and interconnected manner. Authored by Alina Khan, Hiba Fatima, and Naeha Rashid, the report draws on research and consultations with stakeholders across the public and private sector.

According to Tabadlab’s Head of Advisory Umar Nadeem, Pakistan lags far behind in establishing a digital environment that can effectively address chronic governance challenges, service delivery issues, economic opportunities, and gender participation. The report argues that the country needs to fully embrace the potential of digital to take advantage of having a young population, and delay in adopting a “digital first” approach could increase the gap between Pakistan and its regional and global peers, potentially affecting its position and participation in the global economy.

The report provides the foundational analysis necessary to institutionalise the development and adoption of a vision that will make Pakistan truly digital. It recommends a strategic and long-term approach, with the commitment of all stakeholders, including political leaders, technical experts, bureaucracy, civil society, and the people of Pakistan. 

Digital Now is a must-read guide for anyone interested in Pakistan’s digital transformation, providing insights into how digital technologies are reshaping the global economy and driving structural shifts in how individuals, businesses, governments, and societies operate and interact.

Read the full report on Tabadlab’s website:

Digital Now: A Guide to Pakistan’s Digital Transformation