Pakistan's Broadband Subscribers Surpass 166 Million, Penetration Hits 65.79%

Pakistan's broadband penetration reached 65.79 percent, with the country recording 166.12 million broadband subscribers, according to data from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT). The figures highlight the growing role of internet connectivity in the country, although significant coverage gaps remain in several areas.

The MoITT data shows that total telecom subscriptions stood at 212.96 million, comprising 210.46 million mobile subscribers and 2.50 million fixed-line subscribers. Overall tele-density reached 84.34 percent during the reported period. Of the total broadband subscribers, 161.71 million were using mobile broadband services, while 4.41 million had fixed broadband connections. This underscores the central role of mobile networks in providing internet access across Pakistan.

Despite the rising number of subscriptions, connectivity remains uneven, with many regions still lacking adequate coverage. According to the MoITT document, these shortcomings are largely linked to commercial viability challenges, electricity supply constraints, and limited backhaul infrastructure. These barriers have hindered telecom network expansion in underserved areas, restricting access to reliable broadband services.

Addressing these challenges will be essential to extending connectivity to unserved and underserved locations. Expanding network infrastructure and improving backhaul availability remain key priorities for bridging Pakistan's digital divide and increasing broadband access. The government has been pushing for improved connectivity as part of its digital transformation agenda, but industry experts note that sustained investment and policy support are needed to overcome the persistent hurdles.