Pakistan is set to nearly triple its average fixed broadband speed under a new National Connectivity Plan designed to expand digital infrastructure and narrow the digital divide, according to officials familiar with the matter.
The plan aims to raise average broadband speeds from 30.32 Mbps to 85 Mbps, a move that would lift Pakistan from its current global ranking of 92nd to among the top 50 countries in broadband performance.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication is finalizing the framework after consultations with key stakeholders. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to complete the plan without delay.
Under the strategy, the government will prioritize the rollout of 5G services and Fiber-to-the-Home networks, alongside efforts to provide faster and more affordable internet for freelancers and other digital professionals. The plan also seeks to extend broadband access to small cities, rural communities and remote regions that currently lack reliable connectivity.
A central component of the plan involves a major expansion of the fiber network over the next three years. Officials intend to raise tower fiberization from the existing 16 percent to 60 percent, a step expected to significantly strengthen the backbone of the countrys telecom infrastructure.
Several regulatory reforms are also under consideration. These include making fixed broadband connectivity mandatory for all government institutions, schools and healthcare facilities across the country. The government is additionally reviewing tax relief measures for internet users in remote areas.
Further proposals include abolishing Right of Way fees and introducing a one-window approval system to speed up telecom infrastructure deployment and improve nationwide broadband penetration.
The National Connectivity Plan will also introduce new regulatory reforms and clearly define the responsibilities of telecom operators, forming a key part of Pakistans long-term digital transformation agenda.
