KARACHI: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, on Monday underscored the need to globalize Pakistan’s entertainment industry, expressing hope that local dramas and films would soon be featured on major international streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Speaking at a roundtable meeting in Karachi with leading figures from the Pakistani entertainment sector, the minister called for innovation and modernization in content creation to ensure Pakistani narratives resonate with international audiences.
The session included prominent industry personalities such as director Nadeem Baig, producer Satish Anand, and renowned actress Hina Khawaja Bayat.
Iqbal highlighted Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and global acclaim in music, art, and television. “Pakistani dramas are celebrated around the world, yet they are noticeably missing from global digital platforms,” he said. He urged local producers and directors to explore opportunities to take Pakistani stories to international viewers.
The minister voiced concern over the stagnation in Pakistan’s film industry, noting that only a limited number of films are produced annually. He encouraged filmmakers to diversify storylines and move away from repetitive or demoralizing portrayals, particularly those depicting law enforcement negatively. “There are countless stories of integrity and heroism within our police force that need to be shared,” he added.
Describing filmmakers, actors, and producers as “soft power ambassadors,” Iqbal emphasized their potential in shaping Pakistan’s international image. He assured full government support in helping the entertainment industry expand its global footprint through access to international dubbing markets and promotional opportunities.
Iqbal also stressed the importance of telling the stories of Pakistan’s national heroes, urging dramatists to create engaging content about historical figures such as Allama Iqbal to educate and inspire the youth. He drew attention to international success stories, citing China’s rise in global cinema through innovation and strategic exports.
Welcoming the initiative, director Nadeem Baig remarked that it was the first time the government had seriously engaged with industry leaders to understand their concerns and explore solutions. Producer Satish Anand agreed, noting that high-quality Pakistani content had the potential to break through global barriers with proper institutional backing.
Actress Hina Khawaja Bayat called for improved regulation within the industry, particularly in ensuring timely payments to actors and technical staff, to foster professionalism and sustainability.
The meeting marked a significant step in bridging the gap between the government and the creative sector, with both sides agreeing on the urgent need to modernize, export, and protect Pakistan’s rich storytelling tradition on a global stage.
