The government's Private Software Export Board (PSEB) says it is in negotiations with several companies from Singapore. Japan and the US concerning the construction of software technology parks in Karachi and Islamabad.

The parks will be constructed on a build-own-operate (BOO) basis. The operator will recoup investment from rent and service charges from software companies. The park in Karachi will cover 750,000 square metres. The one in Islamabad will cover an area of 206,000 square metres. Both parks are to have satellite earth stations.

Software companies using the technology parks will be able to take advantage of an incentive package for software export companies. The measures include tax and duty exemptions and financial support (MEED 3:11:95).

PSEB says it is keen to get the project underway and views speed of implementation as an important selection criterion. It has by-passed the bidding process in preference for direct negotiations in the hope of speeding up the project. PSEB hopes to see construction underway before the end of the year.