CDA and STZA Join Hands to Establish Special Technology Zone in Islamabad

Date: Oct 16, 2025

ISLAMABAD: October 15, 2025: Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, and Chairman Special Technology Zones Authority (STZA), Azfar Manzoor, jointly chaired a high-level meeting at the CDA Headquarters regarding the establishment of a Special Technology Zone in Islamabad. The meeting was attended by Member Planning and Design CDA, Dr. Khalid Hafiz, Executive Director STZA, Aamir Saleemi, and other senior officers from both organizations. The meeting discussed various proposals for the establishment of the Special Technology Zone. It was highlighted that STZA will act as the regulator and will issue licenses to high-tech companies to be set up within the proposed zone, while CDA will serve as the development agency. To move the initiative forward, a joint working group will be constituted to review the proposals and analyze their financial and operational aspects. The group will hold regular meetings and prepare viable recommendations to be submitted to the Federal Government for a final decision. The participants were briefed that high-tech companies and entrepreneurs associated with modern technologies will establish their technology and production facilities within the zone. They were also presented with the proposed master plan, which includes a dedicated technology zone as well as a high-tech production zone. It was further informed that special concessions, including tax and duty rebates, will be offered subject to the Federal Government’s approval. Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasized that the establishment of the Special Technology Zone, aimed at transforming Islamabad into a Technopolis city, is a top priority for CDA in collaboration with STZA. He added that a viable and sustainable model is being developed by reviewing financial aspects and adopting international best practices. This initiative will play a vital role in promoting technology, positioning Islamabad as a leading technology hub. He further stated that the Special Technology Zone will generate significant employment opportunities in the technology sector within the capital. Concluding the meeting, Chairman CDA reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to fully utilize STZA’s technical expertise and experience to ensure the project’s success following the Federal Government’s approval.