Pakistan’s IT Exports Reach $3.8 Billion, Says Shaza Fatima

Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja shared major updates on Pakistan’s digital progress and the upcoming 5G spectrum auction.

Pakistan’s IT exports have reached USD 3.8 billion, with freelancers contributing USD 0.7 billion, marking a 91% increase. The Pakistan Digital Authority has been established to create a national digital blueprint for agriculture, health, and education. A massive skills program is underway, with 300,000 people currently in training and a target of one million to boost employment and drive economic growth.

The government has prioritized affordable high-speed internet, with submarine cable expansion and tower fiberization plans. Currently, only 14% of telecom towers are fiber-connected, but a three-year roadmap with local partners aims to improve this. Right-of-Way fees have been waived in Islamabad by the CDA, while NHA and Railways have been directed to follow suit.

Pakistan’s telecom network remains 98% wireless, but efforts are being made to shift towards fiber backhaul. Youth enablement initiatives include new tech parks and 25 co-working spaces with 2,800 additional seats. The 5G spectrum roadmap is centered on selling 600 MHz spectrum, with a rollout possible three months after auction.

The PTA highlighted sector growth but warned that congestion, low tariffs, high costs, and 37.4% taxes have impacted service quality. Bottlenecks include fiber and power gaps, limited international capacity, and only four active data centers.

The government aims to conduct the 5G spectrum auction by December 2025, expecting gains in GDP, exports, investment, and jobs. Regulatory initiatives include national roaming, SIM security, VoWiFi rollout, 3G sunset plans, Wi-Fi 6E/7 adoption, infrastructure sharing, and cybersecurity measures.