Islamabad: Pakistan’s telecom sector showed strong momentum during the past year, supported by rapid growth in data usage and renewed regulatory discussions aimed at easing the cost of mobile devices for consumers.
According to the latest disclosures from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, nationwide data consumption reached a record high, reflecting the country’s accelerating shift toward digital services and online platforms.
The regulator reported that mobile and broadband networks now cover nearly the entire population, extending connectivity deeper into rural areas and strengthening Pakistan’s overall digital infrastructure.
Rising usage has been driven by increased reliance on video streaming, online education, digital payments, and social media, as millions of users integrate internet-based services into everyday life.
Alongside this growth, the PTA has voiced support for reducing taxes on imported mobile phones, a move widely seen as critical to improving smartphone affordability amid rising device prices.
PTA officials clarified that while tax collection falls under the Federal Board of Revenue, the regulator continues to advocate policies that lower financial barriers and encourage wider access to modern handsets.
Industry observers say the combination of expanding connectivity and potential tax relief highlights Pakistan’s growing importance as a regional digital market with significant long-term economic potential.
With tens of millions of mobile and broadband users, the surge in data consumption is also strengthening the case for future investments in advanced networks, including next-generation mobile technologies.
For consumers, these developments signal broader access to digital services and the possibility of lower upfront smartphone costs if policy discussions translate into concrete reforms.
As the country moves forward, analysts will closely watch how regulatory measures evolve and whether infrastructure investment keeps pace with Pakistan’s rapidly rising demand for digital connectivity.
