Pakistan’s ICT Exports Surge 28% Amid Growth

Shaza Khawaja, Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunication, in a response during the National Assembly’s Question Hours reportedly claimed Pakistan’s Information and Computer Technology (ICT) services export remittances have recorded a 28 percent increase.

Reaching approximately $1.86 billion during the current financial year’s first half, she credited ‘improved’ internet penetration and speed for the growth. Presently, WhatsApp and VPNs are fully functional, with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) operating a 24/7 service center for prompt issue resolution. However, acknowledging the persistent challenges faced by users she assured that efforts are underway to address these issues.

Emphasizing her commitment to advancing the IT sector she shared that the government aims to add 562 MHz to Pakistan’s current internet bandwidth of 274 MHz, recently freed via court decisions, commending the Ministry of Law and Justice and Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) for their efforts to address legal obstacles.

Highlighting infrastructure advancements, she noted Pakistan’s eight submarine cables, including one nearing the end of its life, and the arrival of the world’s largest submarine cable. Fatima also emphasized the significance of VPN registration for Pakistan’s growing freelancing and IT sectors, with over 31,000 IPs registered free of charge.