Pakistan’s online gaming population is projected to reach 45 million by the end of 2025, according to a written statement submitted by Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, to the National Assembly. The minister highlighted the rapid growth of the local gaming industry, driven by widespread smartphone adoption, improved digital infrastructure, and a tech-savvy youth demographic.
Currently, Pakistan has over 34 million verified online gamers, with mobile gaming dominating the market. Around 60% of gamers play on mobile devices, followed by 30% on PCs and 10% on consoles. Local game developers are increasingly targeting global markets to maximize financial returns, reflecting the industry’s growing potential.
Global and Local Market Insights
The global video game market was valued at $227.6 billion in 2023, while the broader Animation, Gaming, and Graphics market stood at $626 billion in 2022. Industry projections estimate that the combined market will surpass $1 trillion by 2030, with mobile gaming—constituting 52% of the market in 2022—continuing to drive global growth due to its affordability and accessibility.
In Pakistan, the Animation, Gaming, and Graphics sector generated $300 million in revenue during 2022–23, with $157.9 million coming from exports, according to a report by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA). The sector employs over 12,000 people and comprises 257 companies. Additionally, the industry raised $36 million in investments during the fiscal year 2022–23.
Government Support for the Gaming Industry
The government is actively supporting the gaming industry through initiatives like the establishment of the Center of Excellence in Gaming and Animation (CEGA) in Karachi and Lahore. Funded by the Ignite National Technology Fund under the Ministry of IT and Telecom, CEGA has been allocated a budget of Rs. 2.5 billion. The center aims to nurture startups and train 10,000 participants over the next five years, fostering innovation and growth in the sector.
