Pakistan, Aug. 12 -- Pakistan's IT ministry and Meta on Tuesday launched a training program to help small businesses use digital and artificial intelligence tools to reach new customers, improve productivity and expand into new markets.

Small and medium-sized enterprises are a critical part of Pakistan's economy but many face barriers to adopting digital technologies that can help businesses market products, automate customer interactions and reach consumers beyond traditional local markets.

The Small Business Growth Academy will provide in-person and virtual training to more than 1,000 businesses across nine Pakistani cities, with a particular focus on women-led enterprises and businesses in textiles, handicrafts and IT services.

"Sma...