Parliamentary Secretary for IT, Sabreen Ghori, announced during a National Assembly session that the government aims to launch 5G services in Pakistan by mid-2025. She also assured lawmakers that prevailing internet speed issues would be resolved within the same timeframe.
Concerns Over Slow Internet Speeds
Lawmakers raised concerns over frequent internet slowdowns. PPP’s Agha Rafiullah highlighted issues like the inability to download videos or access stable internet. MPA Shagufta Jumani referenced PPP chairperson Bilawal Bhutto’s remarks questioning recurring disruptions in Pakistan’s internet connectivity.
Challenges in Transitioning to 5G
Despite growing broadband penetration, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in its 2024 annual report noted that transitioning to 5G will be challenging. Key concerns include:
- Financial Constraints: Investment in Pakistan’s telecom sector dropped from $1.6 billion (2021–2022) to $765 million (2023–2024).
- Revenue Issues: Telecom operators' average revenue per user has declined in dollar terms compared to other nations.
- High Infrastructure Costs: The significant upfront investment required for 5G may lead telecom companies to adopt a cautious approach.
While the government remains optimistic, financial and infrastructural hurdles may impact Pakistan's successful rollout of 5G services.
