Tech Desk 
Aug 28, 2025
Pakistan has achieved $3.8 billion in IT exports, and according to IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, freelancers in Pakistan are a big contributor to that figure.
She spoke about the government's initiation of the Pakistan Digital Authority, as well as the Digital Nation Pakistan initiatives taking place. “The Ministry of IT wants every child in the country to have access to high-speed internet,” she said. “In three to four years, we will be a digitally transformed country.”
On infrastructure, Fatima noted that Pakistan is already connected through seven submarine cables, while three more are on the way. “The Prime Minister will meet investors during his visit to China and will discuss investment in submarine cables. Some companies have shown interest,” she added.
She also explained that all submarine cables land in Karachi, but the government is exploring Gwadar or another area to establish a new landing site.
On challenges, the IT minister indicated that only 14% of towers in Pakistan are connected with fibre, and Pakistan has the highest right-of-way charges in the region.
"The right-of-way approval process is inherently challenging. Currently, 3-4 companies manage the backbone of fiberization in Pakistan. If we can make a better ecosystem, investment will come," she said.
Moreover, Fatima explained that the CDA has already abolished the right-of-way charge, and a new portal has been created for right-of-way approval to fast-track the process.
A letter from the Prime Minister's office has also requested that the NHA and Railways also abolish the right of framework charge.
She further said 98% of internet users in Pakistan rely on Wi-Fi, and only 2% use fibre internet. Global consultants are working with PTA, the Pakistan Space Activity Regulatory Board, and others to finalise satellite internet regulations, with companies from the US, China, and other countries already applying.
