P@SHA PULSE Vol 8. June 2023 Edition
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Dear Members
Last month was perhaps the busiest month where the P@SHA team had been actively involved with the Govt in sharing recommendations around budgets and proposing initiatives for the sector to be considered in the new Fiscal year. In addition, we have been all around the globe with our delegates and exhibitors including Gitex Morocco, Dublin Tech Summit, London Tech Week and Collision Canada.
We are continuously at work to serve you better. Our team is expanding and so are the initiatives. We look forward to your support and continuous feedback.
Regards,
P@SHA CEC
By the Members, For the Members
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31 May - 1 June 2023
Delegation to GITEX Africa
P@SHA organized a delegation to GITEX Africa from 31st May to 1st June to showcase Pakistan's technological potential. The Federal Minister for IT & Telecom inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion and delivered a keynote speech highlighting efforts towards achieving Digital Pakistan. The delegation participated in panel discussions and networking events, emphasizing the importance of startups and attracting investments. P@SHA also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with TalentNations to drive export opportunities for Pakistani IT specialists. Additionally, a Pakistan-Morocco B2B Tech Connect event was hosted, fostering an exchange of ideas between IT leaders from both countries. The event concluded with souvenirs presented to the organizing team, by P@SHA Chairman Muhammad Zohaib Khan and Member IT Junaid Imam symbolizing the collective achievements. The delegation highlighted Pakistan's commitment to technological advancement and global collaboration in the tech community.
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31 May - 1 June 2023
Delegation to Dublin Tech summit
P@SHA organized a groundbreaking IT delegation to Dublin, Ireland from May 31st to June 1st. The visit included a lunch briefing by the Pakistan Embassy, where Ambassador Aisha Farooqi highlighted opportunities for Pakistani IT companies in the Irish tech industry. iPIP hosted a networking dinner, providing insights into the Irish tech industry's contributions. The Pakistan Ireland Business Council organized a lunch, sharing strategies for entering the Irish tech sector. Additionally, the Irish Pakistani Professionals Association (IPPA) hosted a dinner for P@SHA delegates attending Dublin Tech Summit 2023. IPPA, comprising high-profile Pakistani professionals in the diaspora, works towards the welfare of the Pakistani community in Ireland. Highlighting the visit was the exclusive Pak-Ireland B2B Tech Connect event organized by P@SHA in Dublin.
This event provided curated networking opportunities for delegates to establish partnerships with Irish business leaders and key IT stakeholders. Distinguished keynote speakers contributed to the event, further enhancing collaboration between the Pakistani tech community and the global technology ecosystem.
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12 - 16 June, 2023
Delegation to London Tech Week
P@SHA organized a delegation to London Tech Week from 12th June to 16th June. The event began with the official inauguration of the Pakistan Pavilion by the High Commissioner of Pakistan to the United Kingdom and P@SHA Chairman Muhammad Zohaib Khan. The delegation actively participated in panel discussions, including the Global Tech Programme's session on collaboration in a changing world, where Chairman P@SHA shared valuable insights. P@SHA also hosted the P@SHA Connect event, facilitating meaningful connections and collaboration between Pakistani and UK-based tech professionals and businesses. The delegation had productive meetings, engaged in discussions about collaborations and the future of technology, and concluded the day with a cake-cutting ceremony symbolizing unity and achievements. They also had the opportunity to participate in significant events, such as a meeting with Salesforce's UK and Europe leadership team, showcasing Pakistan's growing influence in the global tech industry.
Additionally, the delegation visited Level39, a renowned tech community, where they explored and engaged with various industry leaders in sectors like cybersecurity, fintech, retail tech, and smart cities. The visit provided valuable insights and networking opportunities within a vibrant tech ecosystem.
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17 - 20 June, 2023
Delegation to Collision Canada
P@SHA organized a delegation to Collision Canada from 17 June to 20 June. The Pakistani Delegation comprised of 13 exhibitors and more than 30 delegation members this year at Collision Canada. The Pakistan Pavilion was inaugurated by Distinguished guests, including Consul General Mr. Khalil Ahmed Bajwa, TIC Mr. Azhar Hussain, and P@SHA CEC member Mr. M. Azam Mughal. Pakistan showcased its remarkable tech excellence through innovation, collaboration, and visionary ideas.
Additionally, The Pakistan High Commission in Toronto hosted a high-tea session, bringing together Pakistani and Canadian IT sectors. This incredible occasion highlighted the power of working together, nurturing significant relationships, and unlocking opportunities for thrilling collaborations.
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20 June, 2023
Webinar: Companies in UAE & Tax Implications
On June 20 we held a webinar on "Companies in UAE & Tax Implications". The webinar was led by Mr. Arsalan Mushtaq, a seasoned tax professional with 17+ years of experience in direct and indirect taxes. He had previously worked at PwC, KPMG, and athGADLANG in the UK and UAE, where he served multinational corporations and owner-managed businesses.
The full recording of our Webinar is now available on our YouTube: https://youtu.be/ff8h3ZY6M6c
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June 2023
Taxation Campaign
P@SHA organized a successful tax campaign jointly executed by the Policy and Marketing team.
One of the campaign's primary objectives was to draw attention to the industry's stagnant growth and emphasize the urgent need for interventions to correct this situation. P@SHA believes that establishing a stable and predictable policy ecosystem is crucial for fostering growth and development.
As part of the campaign, P@SHA featured highlights from the tax analysis report. The report highlighted the variations in taxation policies for BPOs, startups, and freelancers. By streamlining and improving the taxation regime, we can foster an environment where the IT & ITeS sector flourishes, making a significant contribution to Pakistan's economic progress.
The campaign made a significant impact. The response was overwhelming, with several news channels reaching out to P@SHA for comments. The Prime Minister's Office took notice and called for an explanation from relevant authorities, recognizing the importance of addressing the challenges faced by the industry.
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June 2023
Budget 2023-24
Recommendations
In a recent meeting with the Prime Minister, Muhammad Zohaib Khan, Chairman P@SHA, presented crucial recommendations to the Finance Ministry for the Budget 2023-24. P@SHA emphasized the allocation of PKR 5.0 billion towards initiatives such as skills development programs and branding efforts to promote Pakistan's IT industry globally, attracting investments and boosting exports. Banking and taxation reforms were also proposed, including the introduction of a simplified income tax exemption regime and tax exemptions for dividend payments by start-ups and IT companies. Additionally, P@SHA recommended a 5% cash reward for companies on export income.
Awareness of Developments in Budget 2023 for P@SHA members
The government's budget introduces a comprehensive set of incentives, including the continuation of the fixed tax rate of 0.25% for IT exports until 2026, relaxed sales tax return filing for freelance exporters in the IT and ITeS sectors, and granting small and medium enterprise (SME) status to IT and ITeS companies. P@SHA continues to advocate for long-term policy sustainability and consistency to stimulate IT exports and attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to the sector.
Impact of the Budget
The fixed tax regime of 0.25% for IT and ITeS exports until 2026 ensures policy continuity and consistency, although it may limit future opportunities for tax exemptions.
Another noteworthy development is the exemption of sales tax on imported IT equipment for exporters registered with the Pakistan Software Export Board. This exemption carries importance for the IT industry as it helps reduce costs associated with acquiring necessary equipment like laptops and servers. This measure aims to enhance affordability and competitiveness within the sector.
While P@SHA's requests for tax exemptions and the revocation of the Fixed Tax Regime (FTR) were not fully met, the exemption on IT equipment imports provides cost-saving advantages for the industry. Additionally, the simplified tax procedures for freelancers aim to facilitate operations and encourage adherence to tax regulations.
P@SHA intends to provide further insights on this matter through a dedicated post-budget event and publications.
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June 2023
P@SHA Policy Reports
P@SHA is proud to present its Policy Paper, titled "Unleashing the Potential of the IT & ITeS Sector: Pakistan's Roadmap to Becoming a Tech DestiNation." As a leading advocate for the IT industry in Pakistan, P@SHA has always been committed to facilitating and promoting its interests. P@SHA aims not only to propose conducive policies to the government but also to raise awareness within the industry.
The recommendations of this report focus on including tax incentives, cost reductions, and regulatory reforms to create an enabling environment for innovation, entrepreneurship, and international competitiveness.
P@SHA highlights strategic focal points, such as policy continuity, which establishes a stable and consistent regulatory framework. This ensures reliability and predictability for businesses operating within the sector. Additionally, the importance of enabling ease of doing business and fostering industry innovation and growth is emphasized while reducing overall business costs.
The full report can be accessed by clicking on the following link:
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June 2023
Board of Investment
ICT Business Sector Reforms
The Board of Investment approached P@SHA for feedback on ICT Business Sector Reforms. The government aims to boost investment in Pakistan and improve the business-enabling environment. P@SHA provided feedback on key areas, including ease of doing business, cost of doing business, skills development, infrastructure, branding, and "Make in Pakistan" initiatives. P@SHA’s recommendations focused on specialized IT Forex Account, cash rewards on IT exports, tax exemptions, skills development programs, Special Technology Zones, branding initiatives, and promoting local IT procurement. P@SHA recommended branding initiatives to position Pakistan as a prominent tech destination, along with measures to promote local IT procurement and remove restrictive clauses in tenders and requests for proposals.
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June 12, 2023
TDAP
Consultative Interview on the Ease of Doing Business for IT/ ITeS in Pakistan
TDAP reached out to P@SHA, for a meeting on accumulating and compiling updated data about the IT sector of Pakistan and current trends in the IT sector. The Policy Lead, Kashoon Leeza, and Senior Coordinator, Farrell Menezes, represented P@SHA in the meeting. P@SHA highlighted the issues that companies face in Ease of Doing Business. P@SHA shared insights on industry growth, challenges that IT companies face such as digital payments, and taxation issues.
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June 21, 2023
FBR
International Conference on Digitalization of Taxes in Pakistan
P@SHA was invited by FBR to participate in the “International Conference on Digitalization of Taxes in Pakistan”. The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), in collaboration with the Federal Board of Revenue, is spearheading a technical assistance project. The project aims to leverage Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools for tax administration. P@SHA shared industry perspectives on taxation and digitalization to ease the tax compliance and regulatory process.
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June 22, 2023
Meeting with UNESCAP: Digitalization of Taxes in Pakistan
P@SHA engaged with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP). P@SHA shared the industry perspective regarding the role of ICT in tax collection and compliance, highlighting the potential for greater efficiency through the use of digital tools such as e-Invoicing, e-withholding tax systems, and point-of-sale solutions. Collaboration opportunities between P@SHA and the FBR were explored, focusing on leveraging ICT for improved tax compliance and the reduction of tax evasion. The challenges faced by IT and ITES companies in terms of tax compliance and how ICT can help overcome them are examined, along with P@SHA's role in promoting and adopting digital tax systems among its members. The importance of training and capacity building, opportunities for innovation, data privacy, and security, the impact of ICT on combating tax evasion, and the vision for the future of digital taxation in Pakistan were also discussed, developing a comprehensive framework of the industry's perspective on ICT-enabled tax reforms.
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Central Executive Committee
Meeting with delegation from Kazakhstan
Dr. Shoab Khan (CEC, P@SHA), and Ayesha Ahmed, (Director of Industry Engagement, P@SHA), held a meeting with a delegation from Kazakhstan at the P@SHA Office. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss Pakistan hosting the Nobel Fest in December 2023. The event will feature Nobel Laureates and global industry leaders who will inspire Pakistani youth in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. The delegation from Kazakhstan included Mr. Maxat Kurbenov, CEO of the Inclusive Development Foundation for Nobel Fest, and Mr. Serik Nugerbekov, Head of the organizing committee for Nobel Fest.
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Central Executive Committee Meeting
The 10th Meeting of the Central Executive Committee was held on 23rd June 2023 during which discussions were held on various matters about the IT Industry, Members, and Secretariat.
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Skills Committee
Joint meeting with NAVTTC and PSEB
P@SHA Skills team Aleem and Ilhan met NAVTTC and PSEB to discuss and recommend the program design for the upcoming Skills program to potentially train 75,000 Graduates in 2 years. P@SHA along with PSEB provided inputs in drafting the concept note and PC1 that included a list of demanded skills, budgetary recommendations, and program design and approach to NAVTTC. As per the planned approach by NAVTTC, they will be implementing the program based on the inputs of P@SHA and PSEB with both being in the steering committee.
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TechLift Updates
Placement Portal
TechLift completed its target number of 4000 graduates from completing 117 Bootcamps in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad by the end of June 2023. The final deliverable - Detailed Program Impact Assessment Report is being prepared by P@SHA L&D Lead Aleem Abbas with the inputs and consultancy of current and former Skills Committee members and the TechLift Team. The report with its data points will be presented to the members in due time.
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June 21, 2023 |
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Alfoze Joins European Union's ACTIVE Project as EdTech Partner |
Alfoze, a leading EdTech company, and P@SHA member, is thrilled to announce its participation in ACTIVE (The ICT Applications for sustaInable enVironmental protEction).
ACTIVE aims to address Pakistan's environmental challenges through capacity building and interdisciplinary training, bolstered by Alfoze's expertise in Outcome-Based Education.
View Website
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June 22, 2023 |
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OFFICIAL DIGITAL MARKETING PARTNERS - MONEY BACK GUARANTEE |
We MEAN3 was the official digital marketing partner of the Money Back Guarantee. We collaborated with TikTok for Promotions on which we ran the feed ads throughout the month and the top view ad on Chand raat. We also covered 3 major events that include a trailer launch in Lahore, a media junket in Karachi PC Hotel, and a movie premiere in Nupelex DHA Karachi. We managed celebrity management, social media management, and paid ads on Facebook Youtube, and Tiktok dance step push.
View Website
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June 26, 2023 |
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Royal Cyber: Setting New Standards in Digital Transformation! |
Royal Cyber has been multiple times awarded in the year 2023 that recognizing our excellence and innovation in the global software industry. Achievements included ISO 27001 certification for 2022-2023, being named CRN's "Tech Innovators" and "Solution Provider 500" for 2023, securing the Digital SaaS Platform Partner of the Year 2023 titled, and being recognized as Chicago's 2023 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For and Great Places to Work in India for 2023.
View Website
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June 27, 2023 |
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Proximie x DigiTrends: Propelling Pakistan's Medical Landscape with a Remarkable Launch |
DigiTrends, as the Marketing and Media Partner, proudly announces the successful launch of PROXIMIE in Pakistan. In collaboration with Digital Care and the British Deputy High Commission, the event took place on June 9, 2023, at the British Deputy High Commission in Karachi. PROXIMIE revolutionized healthcare by offering real-time remote surgical assistance and training through its innovative platform.
View Website
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June 27, 2023 |
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DigiTrends shines as a top iOS app development company, listed among TechReviewer.co's prestigious Top 100 |
DigiTrends, a leading mobile app and software development company, proudly announces its inclusion in TechReviewer.co's esteemed list of Top iOS App Development Companies for 2023. DigiTrends has consistently produced high-performance iOS apps that captivate users. DigiTrends' client-centered approach, coupled with their talent for creating feature-rich and user-friendly iOS apps, has propelled their business to new heights of success.
View Website
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16 - 20 October , 2023
GITEX Global 2023
GITEX Global, the world’s largest and most inclusive tech event will return to Dubai in 2023 for its 43rd edition, gathering the world’s most advanced companies and best minds to elevate business, economy, society, and culture through the power of innovation. Converging and unifying the world’s leading tech protagonists, inventors, academia, researchers, and developers.
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14 - 16 November, 2023
BlackHat MEA 2023
BlackHat MEA 2023 has announced an exclusive 15% discount for P@SHA members on exhibit spaces at the event.
BlackHat MEA 2023 is the region's leading cybersecurity conference and exhibition that brings together a diverse community of cybersecurity practitioners, researchers, and thought leaders.
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27 - 28 November, 2023
3rd Future Tech Event Oman
Future Tech Event is recognized as the foremost B2B and B2G bespoke Technology Event in the Sultanate of Oman. This event serves as a pivotal platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue, fostering collaboration among C-Level executives, industry experts, decision-makers, policy-makers, and government officials from across the value chain.
The event will be held from 27-28 November 2023 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre in the Sultanate of Oman.
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