In a significant visit to Mindstorm Studios, Lahore’s premier game development studio, the Honourable IT Minister Shaza Khawaja, under the guidance of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, reiterated the government’s dedication to prioritizing the gaming sector.
On Friday, April 19, 2024, Minister Shaza Khawaja engaged with key stakeholders in the gaming industry, including Qasim Assad, Studio Director at Mindstorm Studios.
The discussions revolved around the trajectory of Pakistani game development, which has showcased impressive revenue generation, approximately USD 200 million, and its pivotal role in fostering employment, boosting female participation, and fostering innovation.
The gaming industry, a dynamic sector employing over 10,000 professionals, with 17 percent representing women, has also garnered significant venture capital funding, amounting to USD 36 million, indicating its expanding influence and potential.
Present at the meeting were Yaser Awan, Director of Labs; Sabeen, HR Director; and Sophia Richards, Senior Research Officer, who shed light on critical challenges confronting the industry, such as high taxation, financial restrictions, and resource shortages hindering growth.
Minister Khawaja articulated the government’s vision, asserting, “The gaming industry has immense potential in the global IT revolution. I am here today to ensure that we develop gaming as a key industry, aligning with the Prime Minister’s directive to focus on IT as one of the top sectors.”
She emphasized further, stating, “Having visited Mindstorm Studios, I am impressed by their contributions to product development and societal impact. Our role is to facilitate and align with the industry’s vision, addressing any bottlenecks to ensure ease of doing business.”
Furthermore, the Minister announced the establishment of an AI-based platform to institutionalize public-private dialogue, aiming to foster continuous policy discussions and responsiveness to the industry’s evolving requirements.
