Pakistan’s Digital Transformation Expected to Generate $20 Billion

Pakistan’s digital transformation initiatives are expected to generate an economic impact of $20 billion over the next four years, driven by ongoing reforms and infrastructure expansion in the telecom and IT sectors. Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, during the 26th South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC) meeting in Islamabad, said that the government is committed to building a strong digital foundation that supports national growth and regional cooperation. The minister stated that the conference comes at a crucial time when the world is rapidly moving toward new technologies. She emphasized that Pakistan is working in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of a “Digital Nation,” focusing on broadband expansion, digital inclusion, and regulatory reforms to strengthen connectivity across the region. She underscored that South Asian countries must collaborate to create new frameworks for digitalization and cross-border data governance. Highlighting Pakistan’s digital progress, Shaza Fatima said the Digital Nation Bill, passed in January 2025, has paved the way for key measures under Vision 2030. These include ensuring the availability of 1000 MHz spectrum, launching a Data Exchange Layer with NADRA, and advancing toward a cashless economy, an initiative personally monitored by the Prime Minister through regular reviews. She added that the government has also initiated work on the National Fiberization Policy, while Right of Way (RoW) charges have been abolished by federal departments and several provincial governments. Pakistan has achieved 200 million mobile subscribers, and the telecom sector is contributing Rs 1.3 trillion to the national exchequer. IT exports have recorded consistent 20 percent annual growth over the last three years, supported by spectrum reforms, the planned 600 MHz spectrum auction, and the upcoming launch of the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) framework. The government aims to enhance regional collaboration in telecom and IT to promote innovation, digital trade, and secure data governance. Speaking at the event, Chairman of Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Hafeez ur Rehman reaffirmed that consumer protection remains a key regulatory priority. He said the Authority is committed to ensuring fair competition, quality of service, and secure connectivity, stressing that collaboration among all regional stakeholders is essential for achieving a sustainable digital future.