Former Microsoft Pakistan head Jawwad Rehman confirmed the closure and linked the decision to Pakistan’s challenging economic conditions, political instability, high taxes, currency issues, and trade restrictions.
Meanwhile, Former President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi called the move a troubling sign for Pakistan’s economy.
He recalled a missed investment opportunity in 2022, when a planned Microsoft expansion was reportedly canceled after political changes in the country.
Microsoft first opened in Pakistan on March 7, 2000, playing a key role in the country’s digital growth. Experts suggest that the company’s exit highlights broader concerns about Pakistan’s economic and political climate.
The company, which entered Pakistan on March 7, 2000, ended its operations without a formal announcement. “Today, I learned that Microsoft is officially closing its operations in Pakistan. The last few remaining employees were formally informed and just like that, an era ends…” said Jawwad Rehman, Microsoft’s founding country head in Pakistan.
“Microsoft’s decision to shut down operations in Pakistan is a troubling sign for our economic future. I vividly recall February 2022, when Bill Gates visited my office. On behalf of the people of Pakistan, I had the honor of conferring the Hilal-e-Imtiaz on him for his remarkable contributions to polio eradication in our country,” Former President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi said.
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