Pakistan Sets 100 Mbps Goal for All Users Under New National Fiberization Policy

The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) is targeting a minimum fixed broadband speed of 100 Mbps for all users across Pakistan as part of a major national overhaul of the country’s digital infrastructure. To achieve this, the Ministry will hire a consulting firm to develop Pakistan’s first National Fiberization Policy and Plan. The initiative is being launched under the World Bank–supported Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP) to improve high-speed connectivity, expand fiber infrastructure, and support the government’s broader digital transformation agenda. The new policy will work to expand fixed broadband coverage by enabling the deployment of 8-10 million new optical-fiber-based house passes nationwide. The Ministry also aims to improve mobile network capacity and reliability by ensuring that 80 percent of telecom towers are connected to fiber. This is essential for strengthening 4G networks and preparing Pakistan for future 5G rollout. These goals are designed to help Pakistan reach the top 50 countries in Ookla’s global speed rankings. MoITT has assigned the upcoming consultant to conduct a national gap assessment. This includes mapping the current fiber network, analyzing service availability, and identifying gaps in quality of service, coverage, latency, penetration, and operator incentives. The consultant will also benchmark Pakistan’s fiber development using the Fiber Development Index (FDI) and other international indicators to ensure the policy follows global best practices. The consultancy will then prepare a detailed National Fiberization Strategy and Operational Plan. It will outline investment options, financing models, and governance structures to guide public and private sector participation. Bankable feasibility studies will be developed to attract local and international investors through public-private partnership (PPP) models. The strategy will also identify priority areas for new fiber deployment and recommend measures to strengthen the resilience of fiber networks against disasters and cyber threats. Legal and regulatory reforms will play a key role in the policy. Recommendations will focus on updating laws and directives that currently slow broadband growth. These may include changes related to spectrum use, incentives for fiber backhaul, and reducing capital cost barriers for private operators. The National Fiberization Policy is set to become a foundational document for Pakistan’s digital future, supporting faster, more reliable, and more affordable broadband services nationwide.