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Pakistan is stepping up efforts to accelerate its digital transformation. Addressing the South Asian Telecommunications Regulators Council in Islamabad, Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced a series of key initiatives aimed at boosting connectivity, financial digitization, and regional cooperation.
She revealed that a Data Exchange Layer, developed in collaboration with NADRA, will soon be launched to enable secure, real-time data sharing across government institutions, a move expected to improve digital governance and citizen services.
Fatima added that the Prime Minister is chairing biweekly meetings to advance a cashless economy, signaling a strong national push toward digital payments and financial inclusion.
To accelerate fiber deployment, federal departments have scrapped right-of-way (RoW) charges, while most provincial governments are following suit.
“This step will remove long-standing barriers to broadband expansion,” she said.
The minister also announced that work on a National Fiberization Policy is underway, alongside preparations for a 600 MHz spectrum auction to enhance high-speed internet and support 5G readiness. Meanwhile, the long-awaited Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) framework is nearing final approval, paving the way for new telecom entrants.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional digital cooperation, Fatima said the government aims to strengthen ties with other South Asian countries to advance connectivity, innovation, and data governance.
With these measures, Pakistan is moving closer to its Digital Nation Vision 2030, targeting faster internet, stronger infrastructure, and a more inclusive digital economy.
