ISLAMABAD – Microsoft shut down its operations in Pakistan after 2.5 decades amid growing economic and regulatory challenges in South Asian nation, raising concerns about country’s business environment.
Former Microsoft Pakistan manager Jawwad Rehman pushed for urgent reforms at national level as the exit marks end of an era that started in 2000 when Bill Gates’s company first established formal presence in the country.
As the announcement shocked the world, Jawwad called it end of an era, explaining “not just a job, but a calling,” highlighting key milestones such as building a high-performing local team, strengthening customer relationships, and playing a central role in Pakistan’s early digital transformation.
He further expressed concern over broader implications of the tech giant’s exit, pointing to improve economic instability, regulatory unpredictability, and shrinking investor confidence as core challenges facing Pakistan’s business environment.
If companies like Microsoft are choosing to leave, it’s time to reassess our direction as a nation, Jawad said as the shutdown is part of global restructuring plan, which includes laying off approximately 9,100 employees.
Microsoft’s exit from Pakistan is being viewed as a sobering sign for the local tech industry, and has sparked fresh debates around economic policy, regulatory reforms, and the need to foster a more stable and welcoming environment for multinational firms.
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