ISLAMABAD – In a major step toward strengthening Pakistan’s digital economy and improving ease of doing business for the tech sector, the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has launched MARKAZ Industry Facilitation Center, a dedicated one-window support platform for IT companies, BPOs, call centres, and freelancers.
The newly introduced facility is designed to streamline administrative processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and provide round-the-clock support to technology-driven businesses. Officials believe that the platform will significantly contribute to improving regulatory compliance, accelerating business operations, and boosting Pakistan’s IT and IT-enabled Services (ITeS) exports.
A Centralized Support System for the Tech Industry
According to PSEB, MARKAZ will operate as a centralized facilitation hub where companies can obtain guidance on a wide range of operational and regulatory requirements. The centre will assist businesses in matters such as company registration, sector-related approvals, documentation procedures, and the processing of regulatory clearances.
The scope of services includes facilitation related to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI), Social Security institutions, provincial labour departments, and other government organisations involved in the tech ecosystem.
Officials said these services will help tech firms navigate processes that often become time-consuming or complicated due to overlapping regulations, unclear procedures, or delays in inter-departmental coordination.
Addressing Long-Standing Bottlenecks
For years, Pakistan’s IT sector has highlighted the need for a facilitation mechanism that ensures smoother workflows between industry players and regulatory bodies. Many startups and established companies face delays in documentation, compliance issues, and challenges related to export revenue management—factors that can hamper growth and competitiveness.
PSEB stated that MARKAZ aims to resolve these pain points by acting as a proactive liaison between IT businesses and government departments. The centre is expected to ensure timely resolution of operational, regulatory, and policy-related issues, enabling companies to focus more on innovation and expansion rather than administrative hurdles.
“MARKAZ will directly interface with concerned government departments to help resolve challenges that slow down business growth,” an official said, adding that the initiative is intended to reduce inefficiencies, enhance transparency, and provide a clear roadmap for new and existing companies navigating government procedures.
24/7 Support for Export-Oriented Companies
One of the most significant features of the facility is its 24/7 support model, which will allow IT companies, call centres, and freelancers to receive assistance at any time. This is expected to be particularly beneficial for export-oriented businesses that operate across global time zones.
The centre will guide companies on matters related to export remittances, regulatory compliance for IT exports, documentation required for international clients, and industry-specific processes. Officials believe that round-the-clock availability will allow service providers to respond more quickly to client requirements and regulatory updates.
This continuous support system is also expected to help freelancers and small firms who often lack access to formal channels of assistance or struggle with interpreting complex regulatory procedures.
Boosting Pakistan’s Digital Economy
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) has termed MARKAZ a major milestone in the government’s broader strategy to modernise and expand Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. The initiative complements various other government-led programmes aimed at increasing IT exports, strengthening digital skills, and encouraging foreign investment in the country’s tech ecosystem.
According to MoITT officials, establishing a structured facilitation centre reflects the government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, reducing red tape, and supporting entrepreneurs in scaling their operations.
Industry experts believe that the initiative could play a critical role in boosting investor confidence, especially for foreign firms considering Pakistan for outsourcing and offshore operations. By ensuring predictable regulatory processes and faster approvals, MARKAZ may help position Pakistan as a competitive destination for global technology services.
A Step Toward a More Efficient Tech Landscape
The launch of MARKAZ comes at a time when Pakistan’s IT industry is seeking stability and support amid evolving global market dynamics. With rising demand for digital services worldwide and growing interest in remote work models, improving local facilitation mechanisms has become increasingly important.
The Pakistan Software Export Board says the new centre is just the beginning of broader reforms aimed at empowering IT businesses. The initiative is expected to bridge the gap between industry needs and government processes, ultimately contributing to a more efficient, transparent, and growth-oriented tech landscape.
By simplifying processes, reducing administrative friction, and providing dedicated assistance, MARKAZ is being positioned as a pivotal step toward unlocking the full potential of Pakistan’s digital economy.
