Telecom companies contributed Rs18.28 billion to Pakistan’s Universal Service Fund (USF) and Research & Development (R&D) Fund during FY2025-26. The figures were shared by Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja in a written reply to the National Assembly.
Telecom operators paid Rs13.696 billion to the USF during the fiscal year. The amount came through the 1.5 percent levy imposed on telecom operators. They also contributed Rs4.584 billion to the R&D Fund during the same period. The ministry listed the R&D levy rate at 0.5 percent.
The two funds had a combined balance of Rs 51.909 billion as of June 30, 2026. The USF held Rs36.633 billion, while the R&D Fund had Rs15.276 billion. The figures came in response to questions about telecom collections and available funds. Lawmakers also sought details on delayed network expansion projects in underserved areas.
These projects cover parts of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and rural Sindh. The ministry also provided details on incomplete USF-funded projects and the reasons behind their delays.
The USF finances telecom infrastructure in areas where commercial investment remains limited. Meanwhile, the R&D Fund supports research and development in Pakistan’s IT and telecommunications sectors.
The latest figures show the scale of funding generated through telecom levies. They also highlight the funds available for improving connectivity and supporting technology development.
