Pakistan's IT sector faces serious challenges despite growth

The Ministry of Information Technology reported growth in Pakistan's telecom sector, with broadband subscribers rising to 142.3 million and telecom revenues increasing to Rs955 billion. However, the report did not address significant challenges, including slow internet speeds due to a new firewall. Many IT businesses have closed or are struggling, with some entrepreneurs relocating to the UAE. Telecom operators faced losses as customers switched networks, and freelancers lost clients due to communication disruptions. The software association reported a $500 million loss linked to the firewall. Despite these issues, the minister highlighted advancements like internet connectivity in rural areas and increased IT exports. Initiatives for digital skills training and the establishment of IT parks were also mentioned, but the overall impact on the sector's health was not fully acknowledged.