US Is Pakistan’s Largest Market for IT Exports, Says Ambassador

CHICAGO: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has said that the US is the largest market for Pakistan’s IT exports, highlighting opportunities to strengthen bilateral trade and cooperation in the digital economy.

The remarks came at the final event of the Pak-US Tech Connect 2026 series, held in Chicago and attended by technology companies from the American Midwest, Pakistani IT firms, policymakers and business leaders.

Organised jointly by the Pakistani Embassy, consulate, Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and Open Global, the event was inaugurated by Ambassador Sheikh, who stressed the importance of connecting Pakistan’s emerging technological capabilities with the US market and building sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships.

He said the initiative aimed to introduce the technical skills and achievements of Pakistani youth to the American market. Over the past three years, annual roadshows had helped showcase Pakistani technology companies internationally and received a positive response, he added.

Other speakers included Illinois State Representative Justin Slaughter, State Senator Laura Murphy and Daniel Balfour, vice president of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation.

PSEB Chief Executive Officer Faisal Jeddy highlighted Pakistan’s skilled workforce, competitive advantages and business opportunities in the information technology sector. Ignite CEO Bilal Abbasi and Open Global President Tariq Khan also discussed Pakistani startups and prospects for bilateral cooperation.

Pakistani technology companies, including Strategic Systems International, Ten Pearls, Abacus, Systems Limited, Nextbridge, Edu AI, Excellence Delivered, Folio3 and TMC, showcased their products and services.

Panel discussions and networking sessions focused on improving Pakistani companies’ access to the US market, attracting investment, expanding outsourcing and developing business partnerships.

In his closing remarks, Consul General Zaman Mehdi thanked participants and partners, acknowledging the contributions of government institutions, the private sector and the Pakistani-American community.

Pakistani and American business representatives expressed their commitment to strengthening commercial links and expanding bilateral trade cooperation.