Pakistan’s ICT exports jump 28% in FY2025’s first half: Shaza Fatima Khawaja

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, announced a remarkable 28% increase in Pakistan’s Information and Computer Technology (ICT) services export remittances during the first six months of the current financial year, reaching approximately $1.86 billion.

Speaking during the Question Hour in the National Assembly, Shaza Fatima attributed the growth to improved internet usage and enhanced speed across the country. However, she acknowledged that internet users continue to face challenges, adding that the government is working to address these issues.

“At present, WhatsApp is fully functional, and all VPNs are operational,” the minister confirmed, reassuring the public that connectivity issues are being actively resolved. She also highlighted that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) operates a 24/7 service centre to handle complaints and dispatch technicians when necessary.

The minister emphasised her commitment to protecting and promoting Pakistan’s IT industry, adding that the country’s current internet bandwidth operates at 274 MHz, which restricts accessibility. The government, however, plans to increase bandwidth by an additional 562 MHz, following legal proceedings that have freed up the spectrum.

In terms of infrastructure, Shaza Fatima announced that Pakistan now has access to the world’s largest submarine cable, a development expected to significantly improve connectivity. She also mentioned that the Pakistan-China optic fibre cable is currently operational.

Further discussing Pakistan’s ICT landscape, the minister pointed out that the country is currently connected by eight submarine cables, although one of these cables is nearing the end of its operational lifespan. She expressed optimism that the new submarine cable would help address the country’s connectivity challenges.

Shaza Fatima also commended the efforts of the Law Ministry and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) for resolving legal hurdles related to the industry.

The minister touched upon the importance of VPN registration for the freelancing and IT sectors, noting that over 31,000 IPs have been registered free of charge by the PTA, which has been a crucial step in boosting Pakistan’s digital economy.