TOKYO, July 16, 2026 — Government officials, investors, startup founders and technology leaders from Pakistan and Japan met in Tokyo on Wednesday to discuss stronger cooperation in digital innovation, investment and skilled workforce mobility.
The event, held at the Embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo, was organised by the Asia Web3 Alliance Japan in collaboration with the embassy. It aimed to create direct links among policymakers, entrepreneurs and investors seeking to expand technology partnerships between the two countries.
The alliance, led by President Hinza Asif, positioned the gathering as a platform to support cross-border investment, startup collaboration and access to technology talent.
Participants included Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Digital Affairs Kawasaki Hideto, Pakistan’s Federal Secretary for Information Technology and Telecommunication Zarrar Hasham Khan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Japan Abdul Hameed and Trade and Investment Counsellor Madiha Ali.
Venture capital adviser and 500 Global mentor Jonathan T., along with Tomoko Takasaki of Ibex Japan KK and Antler Ibex, also joined the discussions.
Focus on Policy, Startups and Capital
Speakers highlighted the need for closer coordination among governments, startups and investors to build sustainable technology partnerships.
Government institutions were described as essential for providing regulatory clarity and business support, while startups could contribute innovation, engineering expertise and new digital products.
Investors were identified as a key part of the process by providing funding, market access and expansion opportunities for emerging companies.
Hinza Asif, who moderated the panel discussion, said long-term cooperation would require the combined participation of all three groups.
The event also explored opportunities for Pakistani software engineers, artificial intelligence specialists and startup founders in Japan, where demand for skilled technology professionals remains high.
Japan’s startup visa system and other talent mobility pathways were discussed as possible routes for Pakistani entrepreneurs and professionals seeking access to the Japanese market.
Japan Outlines Digital Policy Priorities
In his keynote address, Kawasaki Hideto discussed Japan’s regulatory and policy direction in artificial intelligence, Web3, digital assets and data governance.
He referred to recent developments related to data-use rules, yen-backed stablecoins and the regulation of digital tokens under Japan’s financial framework.
Kawasaki also highlighted Japan’s work on artificial intelligence, on-chain finance and the Data Free Flow with Trust initiative.
He said cooperation between Japan’s industrial experience and Pakistan’s young technology workforce could create new opportunities in digital trade and innovation.
Pakistan Highlights Expanding IT Sector
Federal Secretary Zarrar Hasham Khan addressed the summit through video link and presented an overview of Pakistan’s information technology industry.
He said the country’s IT exports were on course to exceed $4.5 billion, while freelance earnings had reached about $1.1 billion.
Pakistan has more than 26,000 IT companies and produces over 75,000 technology graduates annually through more than 260 universities, according to figures shared during the event.
Pakistani technology firms currently provide services to clients in more than 170 countries.
Khan said Japanese companies could engage with Pakistan through remote service delivery, offshore development operations and the recruitment of skilled professionals.
Ambassador Abdul Hameed said Pakistan’s young and English-speaking workforce could support Japan’s technology and innovation needs.
Madiha Ali, who served as master of ceremonies, also highlighted trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.
Investors Discuss Funding and Startup Readiness
The panel discussion examined the challenges startups face when seeking international funding and entering foreign markets.
Jonathan T. discussed the standards investors often expect from emerging-market founders, including stronger business models, market preparation, mentorship and acceleration support.
Tomoko Takasaki focused on opportunities for cooperation between Japanese corporations and Pakistani startups.
She said Japanese companies looking for innovation could benefit from closer engagement with Pakistan’s growing founder and technology ecosystem.
The participants also discussed Japan’s expected shortage of IT professionals and the potential role of Pakistan’s engineering workforce in meeting future demand.
Plans for Continued Cooperation
The Asia Web3 Alliance Japan said follow-up work would focus on investment facilitation, corporate-startup pilot projects, talent mobility programmes and continued engagement between government institutions.
The alliance and the Embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo also plan to develop a more structured framework for long-term technology and business cooperation.
Organisers said the event marked an early step towards building stronger connections among policymakers, companies, investors and founders in Pakistan and Japan.
