ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has reported a significant 28% increase in mobile internet speed across Pakistan. This development contradicts previous reports of internet slowdowns, highlighting a robust improvement in digital connectivity. The rise brings the average mobile internet speed to 20.02 Mbps from the prior 15.65 Mbps, showcasing substantial technological progress in the region.
Surge in Mobile Internet Usage
Alongside the increase in speed, there has been a notable rise in mobile internet usage, climbing by 24.2% over the last year. This surge aligns with the expanding digital landscape in Pakistan, where more individuals and businesses are relying on mobile connectivity for daily operations and communication. The PTA emphasizes that these advancements are critical for keeping up with global digital trends.
Growth in Broadband and Telecom Subscribers
The report from PTA further highlights that the number of broadband subscribers has reached 142.3 million, with telecom subscribers totaling 196 million as of September 2024. This growth is a testament to the expanding reach of telecommunications services across the country, making digital access more widespread and improving the overall connectivity infrastructure.
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Economic Impact of Telecom Sector
The telecommunications sector has shown impressive economic performance, generating a revenue of Rs955 billion in the last fiscal year. Additionally, there has been a significant increase in local mobile device manufacturing, with 29.6 million units produced. These figures demonstrate the sector’s crucial role in Pakistan’s economic landscape, contributing substantially to the national income.
Global Ranking and Comparisons
Despite these improvements, a recent World Population Review report positions Pakistan at 198th globally in internet speed rankings, trailing behind countries like Palestine and Bhutan. The average mobile internet download speed stands at 19.59 Mbps, with broadband averaging at 15.52 Mbps. These statistics highlight the ongoing challenges that Pakistan faces in matching global internet speed standards.
Regional and Global Context
In comparison, the United Arab Emirates and Singapore lead globally in mobile and broadband internet speeds, respectively. These countries set benchmarks for what is achievable in internet infrastructure, offering a target for Pakistan to aspire to. The disparity in speeds indicates the potential for further growth and development in Pakistan’s telecom sector.
Conclusion
The recent report from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority highlights a notable 28% improvement in mobile internet speeds across Pakistan, setting a new average of 20.02 Mbps. This increase is a significant step towards enhancing the nation’s digital infrastructure and aligns with increased mobile internet usage and subscriber growth. Despite these advancements, Pakistan still faces challenges in matching the internet speed standards seen in global leaders like the UAE and Singapore. However, the positive trends and substantial economic contributions from the telecom sector suggest a promising future.
