Pakistan is gearing up for a major leap in its digital transformation journey, with the government setting 2025 as the year of 5G. This initiative aims to revolutionize broadband connectivity, improve internet speeds, and expand Fiber-To-The-Site (FTTS) coverage, paving the way for a more connected and technologically advanced nation. A senior official from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has confirmed that the long-awaited 5G spectrum auction is expected to take place in 2025, marking a crucial step toward high-speed internet accessibility and digital inclusivity.
Despite significant progress in the telecom sector, Fixed Broadband (FBB) penetration in Pakistan remains alarmingly low at under two percent. Recognizing this gap, the government has set an ambitious target to increase FBB penetration to 20 percent within the next five years. Additionally, the current average broadband speed of 15 Mbps is expected to rise to between 50 and 100 Mbps, ensuring faster and more reliable internet services for both individuals and businesses.
One of the key enablers of this digital transformation is the expansion of Fiber-To-The-Site (FTTS) coverage. Presently, FTTS penetration stands at just 20 percent, but under the new plan, it is set to triple to 60 percent. To achieve this, the government is focusing on expanding the Optical Fiber Cable (OFC) network, a critical component for 5G deployment. A robust fiber optic infrastructure will reduce the digital divide, improve service reliability, and enhance connectivity, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
As part of this strategy, the government has introduced the National Fiberization Plan, a comprehensive initiative aimed at accelerating fiber optic deployment across the country. The plan is designed to meet the increasing demand for OFC to connect telecom base stations, ensuring seamless connectivity and supporting the high data speeds required for 5G technology. A major highlight of this initiative is the proposed expansion of the fiber network from the current 200,000 km to an impressive 500,000 km, significantly strengthening the backbone of Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
A pilot project is also under consideration to deploy 1 Gbps connectivity in Islamabad, serving as a model for future nationwide implementation. If successful, this high-speed internet service could set a new benchmark for broadband quality and accessibility in Pakistan.
These initiatives align with the PTA’s broader vision of a digitally inclusive Pakistan, as highlighted in its annual report. The report outlines significant progress in expanding telecom services across the country, improving connectivity, and making digital services more accessible to millions. By prioritizing 5G deployment and broadband expansion, the government is positioning Pakistan as a key player in the global digital economy.
With the planned 5G rollout, improved broadband speeds, and extensive fiber optic expansion, Pakistan is set to experience a transformative shift in its digital landscape. The coming years will be crucial in determining how effectively these initiatives are implemented and how they contribute to the country’s overall economic and technological growth.
