Pakistan Starts New Cloud Security Registration System
Pakistan has launched a new registration process under the Pakistan Cloud First Policy to regulate cloud service providers across the country.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication introduced the system to improve cybersecurity standards and strengthen national data protection.
Officials confirmed that six cloud service providers have already submitted applications for accreditation.
Under the new framework, providers must complete detailed security checks before approval. Independent auditors registered with the Pakistan Computer Emergency Response Team will conduct the assessments.
IT Minister Shaza Fatima said the policy creates stronger safeguards for government and public data.
She explained that cloud companies must meet strict technical and security standards before offering services to public institutions.
The Pakistan Cloud First Policy also requires sensitive national data to remain inside Pakistan.
Government officials believe local data storage will improve legal oversight and reduce risks linked to foreign hosting systems.
The ministry stated that public sector organisations must now prefer cloud services for future IT projects.
Departments will no longer rely heavily on separate data centres for new digital systems. Authorities expect this shift to reduce operational costs and improve efficiency.
The federal government has already started implementing the transition process.
Provincial governments have also approved similar policies to support nationwide coordination under the Pakistan Cloud First Policy.
To manage implementation, the ministry established a dedicated Cloud Office.
The office will supervise accreditation, policy enforcement, and cloud adoption across public institutions.
Officials also announced plans to create Cloud Acquisition Offices in every province.
These offices will help departments purchase cloud services through secure and standardised procedures.
A senior ministry official said accreditation remains necessary because many organisations cannot fully evaluate cloud security practices on their own.
The official added that registration will help authorities monitor investment levels in the cloud sector.
According to the ministry, excessive investment beyond actual demand could waste resources and create financial inefficiencies.
A separate government report highlighted another economic benefit of the policy.
Pakistan currently spends large amounts on imported IT services and foreign cloud infrastructure.
The report stated that local cloud services could reduce foreign exchange outflows and support domestic technology companies.
The Pakistan Cloud First Policy will operate under the supervision of a Cloud Board led by the IT Secretary.
Representatives from all provinces will join the board to support consistent implementation across Pakistan.
Officials described the initiative as a major step toward building a secure and modern digital infrastructure for the country.
