Pakistan will soon introduce 5G services and satellite internet, marking a major step in its digital transformation, announced Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja at the South Asia Telecommunication Regulators Council (SATRC) meeting in Islamabad. She emphasized that new regional regulations are essential to ensure technology becomes a source of inclusion and sustainable growth across South Asia.
Highlighting the rapid expansion of Pakistan’s digital economy, the minister said the IT sector now contributes Rs1.5 trillion annually, with e-commerce volumes reaching $7.7 billion and projected to exceed $10 billion next year. ICT exports have risen 20% over the past three years, driven by government initiatives promoting digital innovation.
The government plans to auction over 600 MHz of spectrum to enhance 3G and 4G services and enable nationwide 5G deployment. Meanwhile, satellite communication regulations are being finalized to bring internet connectivity to remote and underserved regions.
Shaza Fatima also announced the launch of a National Data Exchange Layer in partnership with NADRA to improve secure data integration among public institutions. The government is advancing a National Fiberization Policy and has abolished right-of-way charges for fiber expansion across most provinces to accelerate high-speed broadband deployment.
She reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to digital finance, transparency, and cooperation across South Asia, emphasizing the need for shared frameworks to make digital transformation a collective strength. The forthcoming Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) framework will further open the telecom market to private and international investors, boosting competition and innovation.
