P@SHA raises concerns over NCCIA raids on registered IT, software firms

P@SHA has warned that raids by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency on registered IT and software firms could disrupt overseas contracts and weaken confidence in Pakistan’s technology sector. Profit by Pakistan Today reported that member companies allege officers entered offices without warrants, questioned staff for lengthy periods and seized electronic equipment, including where no illegal activity had been established.

The association said interruptions could affect services to international clients and expose confidential business information. It cited IT exports of $4.6 billion in FY2026 and industry growth of about 20%, while the government’s Uraan Pakistan target is $10 billion by FY2029. P@SHA called for warrants, established procedures and checks of company registration, and proposed on-site device imaging and a joint complaints committee involving the NCCIA, the Ministry of IT and Telecom and the Pakistan Software Export Board.