Artificial Intelligence: Pakistan’s Untapped Engine for Economic Growth-A Legal and Policy Analysis

Abstract

Artificial intelligence has developed from a purely technical breakthrough to a strategic tool for economic growth, innovation, and national competitiveness. Pakistan can use AI as a catalyst for investment, productivity, and fair economic growth with the right laws, regulatory supervision, and forward-thinking public policy.  Despite artificial intelligence’s transformative potential, institutional, legal, and regulatory shortcomings have prevented Pakistan from fully reaping its benefits. Though progress has been sluggish, Pakistan has started developing legal and policy frameworks for emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. Policymakers have occasionally relied on restrictive measures rather than comprehensive regulation because regulatory institutions find it difficult to keep up with the rapid advancement of technology. In order to promote innovation, draw in investment, and facilitate AI-driven economic growth, this paper contends that proactive, risk-based governance must take the place of reactive restrictions.In addition to identifying significant institutional and regulatory gaps, the study critically evaluates Pakistan’s current legal and policy framework pertaining to AI and draws comparative conclusions from top international models of AI governance. It suggests an all-encompassing legal and policy framework that safeguards fundamental rights, encourages the responsible use of AI, and strikes a balance between innovation and accountability. In order to position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global digital economy and unlock artificial intelligence as an unexplored engine of sustainable economic growth, the paper concludes that an adaptable and forward-thinking legal framework is essential.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Economic Growth, AI Governance ,Pakistan ,Public Policy ,Legal Framework ,Innovation ,Digital Economy