A landmark agreement to establish the Digital Trade Silk Road Academy was signed in Lahore on Tuesday, marking a significant expansion of technical and vocational education collaboration between China and Pakistan. The partnership unites five institutions: Zhejiang Technical Institute of Economics (Hangzhou), Zhung Lan Trading Company (Lahore), Punjab Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA), Government Technical Training Institute Gulberg (Lahore), and ITMC Technology (Beijing). Together, they aim to bolster Pakistan’s digital economy through advanced training frameworks.
This initiative aligns with longstanding economic ties between the two nations, leveraging China’s leadership in e-commerce and digital trade innovation. China has dominated global online retail sales for 12 consecutive years, with e-commerce emerging as a pivotal economic driver. In 2024, the country reported a 7.2% growth in online retail sales, while its “Silk Road E-commerce” program has extended partnerships to 33 nations, fostering cross-border trade opportunities.
The Digital Trade Silk Road Academy, housed under TEVTA at Lahore’s Government Technical Training Institute Gulberg, will prioritize skill development through Centers of Excellence. Initial programs will focus on cross-border e-commerce, with plans to expand into modern logistics and broader e-commerce sectors. By integrating China’s latest Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) methodologies, the project aims to modernize Pakistan’s technical education system.
“This collaboration directly supports Pakistan’s ‘Digital Pakistan’ vision, ensuring our youth gain globally competitive skills for tomorrow’s workforce,” stated a TEVTA representative. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to equipping students with cutting-edge digital proficiencies, reinforcing Pakistan’s transition toward a technology-driven economy.
