The Senate Standing Committee on IT today urged the PTA to take steps to reduce mobile phone taxes to make them more affordable for the general public. While PTA does not have the authority to reduce taxes on mobile phones, as this power lies with FBR, the committee emphasized the need for affordable access to technology.
During the meeting, the Secretary of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication informed the committee that the implementation of a fiberization policy and the arrival of 5G technology would significantly improve internet services across the country.
Highlighting the growth of the IT sector, an official from the ministry informed the panel that IT exports increased by a substantial 37 percent in 2024, reaching $3.3 billion in the first 11 months compared to $2.4 billion in the same period in 2023. However, the compound growth rate over the past five years was noted to be 23 percent. The official acknowledged that IT exports were slightly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic but have since demonstrated a strong recovery.
The discussion then turned to infrastructure concerns. The Secretary of IT and Telecommunication announced the addition of four new submarine cables to enhance internet connectivity, with three of them expected to be operational within a year.
Several senators raised concerns about persistent connectivity issues in certain regions, particularly Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. One member complained of frequent disruptions in these areas and the difficulties faced in obtaining permits for the installation of mobile towers. Another participant criticized slow internet speeds in Sindh, specifically in Larkana, despite significant investments in connectivity infrastructure.
The committee also discussed the impact of internet shutdowns on affected districts. Chairman PTA, Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, acknowledged the challenges associated with fiber connectivity in Balochistan.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of IT and Telecommunication informed the committee that the Universal Service Fund (USF) had initiated projects in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) with an investment of Rs. 3 billion to improve connectivity in the merged districts.
The meeting underscored the need for continued efforts to improve internet accessibility and affordability across Pakistan, while also addressing the challenges faced in ensuring reliable and uninterrupted connectivity in all regions of the country.
