ISLAMABAD – Tech giant Microsoft has officially closed its operations in Pakistan, ending a 25-year presence in the country. This move comes as part of a global wave of job cuts announced by the company.
The decision has deeply impacted Pakistan’s tech and business community. Microsoft, which began its journey in Pakistan in 2000, had been actively contributing to the country’s digital development. Jawwad Rehman, the founding Country Manager of Microsoft Pakistan, confirmed the closure in a heartfelt message on social media.
He wrote, “Just like that, an era ends,” indicating that the last remaining employees had been formally notified. Rehman described his time with the company as more than just a job, calling it a mission. He recalled the early days of building a team, nurturing customer relationships, and helping shape Pakistan’s digital future.
During his leadership, several major milestones were achieved. These included facilitating the first direct conversation between Microsoft founder Bill Gates and former President Pervez Musharraf, securing grants from the Gates Foundation to improve maternal and infant health, and setting up computer labs in underserved regions. He also played a key role in connecting young tech prodigy Arfa Karim with Bill Gates.
Rehman’s statement also raised serious concerns about the current business environment in Pakistan. “This is more than a corporate exit,” he said. “It’s a warning sign about the conditions our country now presents—even to global firms like Microsoft.”
Industry experts believe this move reflects larger issues such as economic instability, uncertain regulations, and declining investor trust. They also point to a need for Pakistan to re-evaluate its leadership and long-term strategy.
Globally, Microsoft is laying off over 9,000 employees—around 4% of its workforce. The company’s gaming division has taken a significant hit. Studios like The Initiative, responsible for the Perfect Dark project, have been shut down. Cuts have also impacted Forza Motorsport developer Turn 10 and King, the maker of Candy Crush.
The tech giant is also cancelling several major game projects, including Perfect Dark and Everwild, as part of its plan to streamline operations and focus on strategic growth.
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