by Syed Ahmed Raza
ISLAMABAD, June 23 (Xinhua) -- As Pakistan's technology industry gathers momentum and its young digital workforce expands, greater access to the Chinese market could unlock new opportunities for startups, freelancers and small businesses while opening a new chapter in China-Pakistan economic cooperation, according to a Pakistani technology expert.
"China is one of the biggest markets where we should leverage our strengths," Kanwal Masroor, founder of the CxO Global Forum, told Xinhua in a recent interview.
"We want to build a bridge between the two markets so that Pakistani talent, startups and small businesses can explore opportunities in China while also attracting Chinese investment into Pakistan's technology ecosystem," he said.
Masroor believes Pakistan's technology ecosystem is entering a new phase, moving beyond its traditional reliance on software outsourcing toward innovation, entrepreneurship and digital products, with China emerging as a natural partner because of its advanced digital economy and long-standing ties with Pakistan.
The CxO Global Forum, a business networking platform, plans to expand its engagement with China later this year to connect Pakistani technology companies with Chinese businesses, investors and innovation ecosystems.
According to Masroor, Pakistan has established itself as one of the world's leading freelance economies, demonstrating the country's potential to become an important partner in cross-border digital cooperation.
He said China offers unique opportunities because of its mature digital economy, advanced manufacturing base and leadership in emerging technologies.
"Chinese companies understand emerging markets very well. Their experience in building digital platforms, fintech solutions and AI applications can complement Pakistan's strengths in talent and innovation," he said.
Masroor identified technology freelancers, startups seeking investment, and small and medium-sized enterprises looking to internationalize their products and services as three major areas with strong potential for bilateral cooperation.
Beyond market access, Masroor believes closer collaboration with China could also help Pakistan overcome structural challenges facing its startup ecosystem.
While Pakistan has made significant progress in nurturing young entrepreneurs, attracting venture capital remains difficult due to limited exit opportunities, policy uncertainty and regulatory bottlenecks, he said.
"Talent is not our problem. Pakistan has brilliant young people," he said. "What we need is a long-term roadmap, stronger research and development, and platforms that connect innovators with global opportunities."
Masroor also emphasized the importance of localization for Chinese businesses seeking to expand in Pakistan.
"Chinese companies that work closely with local partners, understand consumer behavior and invest in local talent will have significant advantages," he said. ■
