Ayesha Saba

Addressing internet disruptions and fostering a reliable digital infrastructure is imperative to unlock the full potential of Pakistan’s e-commerce sector. A collaborative effort by the government and industry stakeholders can drive economic growth, create jobs, and ensure digital inclusion across the country.

Talking to WealthPK, Coordinator at Enabler Pakistan Waqas Ahmed said global players like Alibaba had recognized this untapped potential and taken steps to bolster Pakistan's e-commerce ecosystem. In a significant move, Enablers, Pakistan's largest e-commerce network, has partnered with Alibaba to establish a robust and efficient supply chain for the industry. “Enablers has positioned itself as a transformative platform for supporting entrepreneurs and fostering an entrepreneurial culture in Pakistan.

By providing resources, training, and mentorship, it aims to modernize the local business practices, accelerate economic growth, and pave the way for Pakistani businesses to compete on a global scale. The organization envisions not only strengthening the local economy but also expanding Pakistan’s e-commerce footprint internationally,” he said. Pakistan's e-commerce sector is poised to unlock its full potential, transforming the way businesses operate and contributing significantly to the country’s digital economy.

By focusing on quality, innovation, and global collaboration, the sector is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan's economic future. Sana Mir, an expert in e-commerce policy, emphasized the critical role of streamlined regulations in fostering sector growth. She noted that many online businesses struggled with unclear tax policies and burdensome compliance requirements, deterring small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from entering the market.

“To unlock the full potential of fashion e-commerce, the government must establish a clear and supportive regulatory framework that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation,” Mir asserted. Moreover, the industry is hindered by the limited access to reliable digital payment options. Despite progress in fintech, many consumers remain unbanked. This system not only increases the operational risks for sellers but also limits scalability. She argued that it was essential to promote the adoption of digital wallets and secure online payment gateways to modernize the sector and ensure its sustainability.

By integrating reliable and secure payment gateways, the e-commerce companies can mitigate these fears and encourage greater adoption of digital transactions, she said. The government also has a critical role in addressing the structural and operational barriers hindering the e-commerce growth. Pakistan still lacks a reliable internet access, further limiting participation in the digital economy. Beyond ensuring a stable internet access, investing in digital infrastructure, particularly improving network quality and availability, is crucial.

Credit: INP-WealthPk