The 26th meeting of the South Asian Telecommunications Regulatory Council (SATRC) took place in Islamabad, uniting regional regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders to deliberate on digital collaboration, consumer protection, and strategies for shaping South Asia’s connected future. The event underscored the growing importance of joint policy frameworks to enhance regional cooperation as South Asian economies increasingly rely on digital infrastructure to drive growth and inclusion.
PTA Chairman Hafeez ur Rehman, in his address, emphasized the council’s role in ensuring fair regulatory practices and protecting consumer rights. He stated that safeguarding consumers remains one of PTA’s foremost priorities, highlighting the need for transparent frameworks and coordinated efforts across the region. Rehman called for stronger partnerships among member countries to advance digital innovation, improve cross-border connectivity, and harmonize spectrum management policies. He stressed that a unified regulatory approach would help foster sustainable digital ecosystems, particularly as South Asia transitions toward widespread adoption of advanced technologies such as 5G and Internet of Things (IoT).
Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, addressing the delegates, noted that the meeting was taking place at a pivotal time when global technology trends are rapidly reshaping economies. She reaffirmed that Pakistan is pursuing the Prime Minister’s vision of becoming a Digital Nation and highlighted that connectivity and technology now play central roles in national development discussions. Fatima urged policymakers to establish progressive regulatory frameworks that promote digital inclusion and ensure equitable access to emerging opportunities. She also drew attention to challenges such as the digital gender divide and accessibility gaps, calling on delegates to integrate cross-border data governance and digital rights into future regulatory agendas.
The minister outlined progress achieved under Pakistan’s Digital Nation Bill, which was enacted in early 2025. Under its framework, several initiatives are already underway, including plans to expand national spectrum availability by 1,000 MHz to support next-generation technologies. As part of Vision 2030, these efforts aim to create an enabling environment for advanced digital services, contributing an estimated $20 billion in economic impact over the next four years. Pakistan’s telecom sector has reached notable milestones, with mobile subscriptions surpassing 200 million and annual contributions to the national exchequer exceeding Rs. 1.3 trillion. Additionally, the country’s IT exports have recorded consistent annual growth of 20% for three consecutive years, signaling the expanding strength of Pakistan’s digital economy.
Delegates from across South Asia reaffirmed their shared commitment to deeper regional collaboration through SATRC. The council remains an essential platform for harmonizing telecommunications policies, improving digital inclusion, and promoting shared strategies for technological advancement. As the meeting concluded, participants agreed to continue collective efforts toward building a more connected, secure, and inclusive digital South Asia, recognizing that sustained cooperation is key to achieving long-term regional development and technological progress.
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