Pakistan will begin rolling out 5G services in the coming months, starting with seven major cities, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirmed on Tuesday.
The announcement came during the inauguration of the 26th ITCN Asia Expo at the Expo Centre in Karachi. While acknowledging challenges, the minister stressed that expanding nationwide internet access remains a top government priority.
Challenges & Financial Strain of 5G
Khawaja admitted that the adoption of next-generation technology carries high financial costs. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in its 2024 report, had already cautioned that the transition to 5G would be difficult, despite rising broadband usage.
Still, she reassured that the government is committed to digital development, citing a recent IT cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia to boost Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and drive economic growth.
Economic Stability & Digital Pakistan Vision
Linking digital progress to broader economic stability, the minister noted that:
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Pakistan has moved beyond default concerns
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Inflation is easing
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Macroeconomic indicators are improving
“Karachi carries the weight of the country’s economic development,” she said, adding that Pakistan’s resilience is now being recognized internationally under the Digital Pakistan initiative.
AI Policy & Youth Training
The minister highlighted major steps in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, including:
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Federal cabinet approval of Pakistan’s first AI policy
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Training programs for 500,000 to 1 million young people in AI and cybersecurity by year-end
“Those who know the right use of technology will replace traditional positions,” Khawaja emphasized, urging the youth to embrace digital opportunities.
Connectivity Issues & Cybersecurity
On poor mobile and data services, she explained that two submarine cables near Jeddah in the Red Sea had recently been damaged, causing disruptions. The government is now working to expand submarine cable capacity and fiberisation for more reliable connectivity.
Khawaja also revealed that Pakistan had successfully blocked hacking attempts from India during recent tensions, ensuring that no government websites were compromised.
👉 With 5G on the horizon, AI training programs, and new digital policies, Pakistan is preparing for a major leap forward in its digital transformation.
