Interview with Syed Abdul Qadir, Executive Director — A. F. FERGUSON & CO. (PWC PAKISTAN): ‘Technology is no longer changing companies — it is deciding which economies compete’

Business Recorder published an interview with Syed Abdul Qadir, Executive Director at A. F. Ferguson & Co., recorded on the sidelines of the World CIO Summit Pakistan Edition in Karachi on September 12, 2026. According to the publication, the event drew more than 1,000 CIOs, CISOs, CDOs and business leaders, with over 25 technology and cybersecurity firms taking part as key partners. He framed the gathering as a local hub linked to a worldwide network of over 5,000 CIOs and technology leaders.

In the interview, Qadir argued that Pakistan's standing in global technology discussions has been earned by its own leaders rather than granted. He noted that the Karachi event started as a session under ITCN Asia and has since become a standalone flagship gathering. He also described the country's talent as exceptional, while saying young professionals lack early exposure and access to mentors.

On IT exports, Qadir said AI is altering the economics of technology work and putting routine, low-cost outsourcing under growing pressure. He called the next five years decisive and urged firms to win work on expertise rather than affordability, through AI-led solutions, cybersecurity, GRC services and product engineering. He said the aim should be to become one of the world's most trusted technology providers, not its cheapest.