Industry–Startup Collaboration Key to Economic Growth, Says Minister Nasir Shah at KATI Industrial Edge 2025

Business Reporter

Karachi: The Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) hosted the landmark event “KATI Industrial Edge 2025”, bringing together industrialists, startups, and economic experts to discuss strategies for economic growth and innovation.

Chief Guest, Sindh Provincial Minister for Energy and Planning Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, highlighted the importance of collaboration between industry and startups. He stated that the Sindh Government will provide all possible support to foster such partnerships, including interest-free loans and policy guidance. Minister Shah emphasized that leveraging youth potential, under the guidance of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, is central to overcoming Pakistan’s economic challenges.

KATI President Junaid Naqi described the event as a unique platform for direct interaction between industry and startups. He stressed the importance of import substitution industries to reduce dependency on foreign goods, strengthen the economy, and improve foreign exchange reserves.

Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya underscored the immense potential of young entrepreneurs and encouraged both government support and industrial backing to help startups thrive globally.

Maheen Salman, Chairperson of the Incubation and Startups Committee, said that startups are essential for industry growth. “Our youth have talent; what they need is guidance and investment. With industry support, they can achieve global recognition and contribute significantly to the economy,” she added.

NIC Project Director Azfar Hussain noted that while Pakistani startups have achieved global success, they still lack the infrastructure and financial facilities available in developed countries. He highlighted that Pakistani entrepreneurs in the US have created industries worth over USD 10 billion and stressed that proper support at home could spark a major economic revolution.

Other speakers included Muhammad Ghazal (COO, Saylani Welfare International Trust), Kareem Teli (MD, Iglu Pakistan), Dr. Mehvesh Akhtar Khan (Director, Opeth Pharma), and Syed Ali Askari (CEO, CMCon Engineering Services). Startups from NIC Karachi, Sir Syed University, and other educational institutions also showcased their innovations at the event.