Google highlights Pakistan’s growing app and gaming sector

LAHORE: Google’s Director for Pakistan Farhan S Qureshi has said that the country’s app and gaming sector holds significant potential for long-term growth.

Speaking at the Google Think Apps 2024 event in Lahore on Wednesday, Qureshi addressed an audience of nearly 350 top developers from Pakistan, along with global and regional industry experts. Building on the success of last year’s Think Apps, this year’s event, the largest of its kind for the industry, concentrated on equipping developers with AI tools to drive innovation, growth and sustainability within the country’s expanding app sector.

Qureshi noted that several Pakistani studios are at the forefront of mobile app development. Companies such as Vyro.AI, Hazel Mobile, Games District, GeniTeam, and Finz Games are leading the field, achieving millions of downloads daily, employing hundreds of locals and attracting international attention.

According to the latest Economic Impact Report by Access Partnership, Pakistan has the potential to see an additional $6.6 billion in annual revenue by 2030 by focusing on digital exports, with the gaming and app industry identified as a key area for growth.

Despite a slight dip in overall app downloads in 2023, which placed Pakistan 17th globally, the industry remains robust, with a 50 per cent increase in in-app purchase (IAP) revenue. This growth is marked by a 32 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in global downloads of locally produced apps from 2018 to 2023.

Google underscores that thriving in the app industry requires a strategic and forward-looking approach.

Think Apps 2024 presented how AI is transforming game and app development and spotlighted local and regional developers who have leveraged Google’s AI solutions to produce high-quality apps, achieve financial success and build sustainable businesses.