KARACHI – July 31, 2025
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal has voiced his ambition to see Pakistani dramas and films featured on major international streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon, urging local storytellers to think bigger and bolder.
Speaking at a roundtable discussion with leading entertainment figures in Karachi, Iqbal said it was time for the industry to move beyond formulaic plots and embrace fresh, globally relevant narratives. “We have a rich legacy in television, music, and the arts,” he noted. “But despite the admiration Pakistani dramas receive abroad, we are still largely absent from the world’s top digital platforms.”
The minister emphasized the need for innovation in content creation, adding that global success will only come when producers start telling stories that resonate beyond borders. He also encouraged the industry to shine a spotlight on Pakistan’s unsung heroes — particularly those in professions like the police — and portray them in a positive, inspiring light.
Iqbal called artists and filmmakers Pakistan’s “soft power ambassadors,” saying their work shapes international perceptions of the country. He promised government support to help local creators tap into international dubbing markets and make Pakistani content more accessible to global audiences.
He pointed to China as an example, crediting its cultural rise to strong, export-oriented strategies that Pakistan could learn from.
The session drew an encouraging response from the industry. Acclaimed director Nadeem Baig praised the government’s initiative to directly engage with content creators, calling it a “welcome step in the right direction.” Veteran producer Satish Anand echoed the sentiment, saying that with compelling storytelling and proper institutional backing, Pakistani productions could easily break into international markets.
Actress Hina Khawaja Bayat also spoke candidly about challenges within the local ecosystem, particularly the issue of delayed payments. She stressed that financial stability and timely regulations are crucial for sustaining growth in the creative sector. “If we want the industry to thrive,” she said, “we must ensure that our professionals are treated fairly and paid on time.”
The conversation marked a rare but much-needed dialogue between policymakers and the entertainment world — one that many hope will be the beginning of a more supportive and strategic future for Pakistani media on the global stage.
