Amir Saeed

Pakistan’s expanding internet access fuels economic growth and digital inclusion through enhanced trade, job creation, and connectivity, presenting opportunities for strategic policy and infrastructure development.

Talking to WealthPK, Ahad Nazir, associate research fellow at the Sustainable Policy Development Institute (SDPI), highlighted that this surge in internet penetration has been a key driver of significant economic growth. Enhanced digital trade, job creation, and investment opportunities it brings are pivotal. Referring to international benchmarks, Nazir suggested that the country could emulate the success of other nations through well-designed policy interventions.

He emphasized that strategic investments in digital literacy programs and workforce upskilling were essential to fully leveraging Pakistan’s potential in IT and digital services. These efforts can generate numerous jobs in areas like software development, digital marketing, and fintech, significantly boosting economic activity and individual livelihoods. Nazir also pointed out that enhanced internet access expanded financial inclusion through innovative solutions like mobile banking and digital wallets.

“This development formalizes the economy, broadens the tax base, and improves government revenue collection, ultimately enhancing the country’s access to the global markets by facilitating digital trade, attracting foreign investment, and integrating businesses into global value chains.” Talking to WealthPK, Dr. Sajid Amin Javed, Deputy Executive Director of Research at SDPI, observed a positive trend with the users shifting from 3G to 4G, indicating an increasing demand for high-speed internet and associated services.

This shift underscores the growing need for reliable and efficient connectivity. The country’s digital transformation is advancing rapidly, with internet penetration reaching 45.7% in early 2024 and covering 111 million users. This expansion presents both considerable opportunities and critical challenges for the nation’s economic and social development.

The increasing reliance on digital platforms underscores the need for strategic development to ensure equitable access and maximize benefits across all sectors. Javed highlighted the importance of strategies by telecom operators and regulators to further increase mobile subscriptions and promote digital inclusion. He emphasized the necessity of providing uninterrupted, affordable, and high-speed internet services to all users.

Javed advocated a clear cellular policy guaranteeing high-quality services to foster the user confidence and encourage sustained usage. Ensuring consistent and reliable access is crucial for maximizing the benefits of increased internet penetration and preventing any decline in uptake and usage, which would hinder the realization of economic and social benefits.

Credit: INP-WealthPk