Telecom

PTA Report Reveals Uneven 4G Growth Across Telecom Operators in November

Pakistan’s mobile market showed modest growth in November 2025, as subscriber additions slowed and next-generation adoption continued to soften, according to fresh data from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority.

The country’s total cellular subscriber base rose from 196.153 million at the end of October 2025 to 196.584 million by the end of November 2025. This reflects a net addition of around 0.431 million users within a month. Despite the increase, overall growth remained measured.

Mobile teledensity stayed largely stable during the period. It stood at 79 percent in November. However, overall teledensity edged up from 79.89 percent in October to 79.94 percent by the end of November 2025. This indicates a slight expansion in mobile access across the population.

At the same time, 3G and 4G adoption posted marginal gains. The total number of 3G and 4G users increased from 148.066 million by the end of October to 148.197 million by the end of November. This translates into a net monthly addition of over 0.131 million users.

However, next-generation usage showed continued pressure. The Next Generation Mobile Service penetration rate declined from 59.5 percent to 59.46 percent. This points to a gradual slowdown in advanced mobile service uptake.

Operator-wise data revealed mixed trends across the market. Jazz reported no 3G users during the period. Its 4G subscriber base declined from 55.042 million at the end of October to 55 million, marking the third consecutive monthly drop.

Zong recorded growth in its 4G segment. Its 4G users increased from 41.353 million to 41.560 million. Meanwhile, its 3G base slipped from 1.719 million by the end of October to 1.676 million by the end of November.

Telenor Pakistan also saw a contraction. Its 3G subscribers declined from 0.977 million to 0.932 million. Its 4G base eased from 26.96 million by the end of October to 26.92 million by the end of November.

Ufone showed a contrasting pattern. The operator’s 3G users fell from 1.251 million to 1.114 million. In contrast, its 4G customer base grew from 18.910 million by the end of October to 19.082 million by the end of November.

Overall, the latest PTA figures suggest steady subscriber growth but uneven momentum across mobile technologies. As competition intensifies, operators may need sharper strategies to revive next-generation adoption in Pakistan.