AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
KARACHI: The Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) recently hosted the “KATI Industrial Edge 2025” conference, gathering an impressive array of industrialists, business leaders, startup founders, academics, and economic experts. The event highlighted the critical role of collaboration between traditional industries and startups in fostering economic growth, innovation, and reducing import reliance.
Sindh Energy and Planning Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, speaking as the chief guest, affirmed the provincial government’s commitment to strengthening ties between startups and established industries. He emphasized the potential of Pakistan’s youth to drive prosperity, citing the government’s support through interest-free loans for startups and considering further measures to aid young entrepreneurs.
KATI President Junaid Naqi described the conference as a historic platform linking industry with startups, promoting innovation and research. He stressed the importance of supporting import substitution industries to conserve foreign exchange and stabilize the nation’s reserves, thereby paving the way for sustainable economic independence.
Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya highlighted the potential of Pakistan’s youth, urging both the government and industry to nurture their talent. He called for easy access to financing and the prioritization of startup ventures to bolster industrial growth.
Maheen Salman, Chairperson of KATI’s Incubation and Startups Committee, stated that startups are essential for industrial progress. She advocated for providing young innovators with the necessary resources and support to transform the economy and enhance global competitiveness.
Azfar Hussain, Project Director of the National Incubation Center, noted Karachi’s role as Pakistan’s economic engine and the challenges faced by local startups. He stressed the need for infrastructure and policy support, drawing parallels with the success of Pakistani entrepreneurs abroad.
The conference also featured notable speakers like Mohammad Ghazal, COO of Saylani Welfare International Trust; Kareem Teli, Managing Director of Igloo Pakistan; Dr. Mehwish Akhtar Khan, Director of Opath Pharma; and Syed Ali Askari, CEO of Cemcon Engineering Services. Participation from startups associated with the National Incubation Center Karachi and other institutions further enriched the discussions.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to the vision of “Made in Pakistan to Rebuild Pakistan,” recognizing startups as a pivotal force for economic revival.