Internet connections growth in Pakistan has reached a major milestone after the number of household internet connections across the country increased to 5.10 million, according to a briefing presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during a high-level meeting on information technology and telecommunications. Officials described the development as a major sign of Pakistanās rapidly expanding digital infrastructure and growing technology sector.
The meeting reviewed multiple IT-related initiatives, including broadband expansion, 5G development, artificial intelligence programs, and digital connectivity projects aimed at improving internet access across urban and rural regions.
š Household Internet Connections Increase Significantly
Officials informed the prime minister that household internet connections in Pakistan increased from 1.9 million in 2024 to 5.10 million in 2026.
The sharp rise reflects increasing public demand for broadband services, digital platforms, online education, remote work opportunities, and e-commerce activities. Authorities said expanding fiber connectivity and mobile internet infrastructure played a major role in improving internet accessibility nationwide.
Government officials believe the continued growth in internet usage could further accelerate Pakistanās transition toward a digital economy and support technology-based employment opportunities for young people.
š» Government Prioritizing IT Sector Development
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the development of Pakistanās information technology sector remains one of the governmentās top priorities.
He said Pakistanās youth possess enormous talent and potential in the IT industry, adding that the government is working to create opportunities that can help young professionals compete in international technology markets.
The prime minister also stressed the importance of strengthening digital infrastructure, encouraging innovation, and improving access to online services in less developed regions of the country.
š IT Exports Expected to Reach $4.6 Billion
According to the official briefing, Pakistanās IT exports are expected to reach between 4.5 and 4.6 billion US dollars during the current fiscal year.
Officials stated that growth in software services, freelancing, cloud technologies, and digital outsourcing has contributed significantly to the increase in IT export earnings. The government believes the sector could become one of Pakistanās strongest economic pillars in the coming years.
Authorities also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the business environment for technology companies and encourage foreign investment in Pakistanās digital economy.
š” Pakistanās 5G Auction Generates Major Revenue
The meeting was also informed about Pakistanās recent 5G spectrum auction.
Officials stated that the auction generated approximately 509 million US dollars in revenue and was considered one of the largest telecom-related auctions globally since 2016.
The introduction of 5G technology is expected to improve internet speed, strengthen digital communication systems, and support emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, smart cities, cloud computing, and industrial automation.
Experts believe the expansion of 5G services may also help Pakistan attract further investment in the telecom and technology sectors.
š¤ Artificial Intelligence Programs Continue Expanding
The briefing included updates regarding Pakistanās artificial intelligence initiatives and technology events.
Officials informed participants that Indus AI Week 2026 was organized across 30 cities in Pakistan and attracted more than 100 international delegates. The event focused on promoting innovation, AI awareness, and collaboration between technology experts, startups, and educational institutions.
Authorities stated that more than 88 innovation pavilions were established during the AI week activities, reflecting growing interest in emerging technologies within Pakistanās technology ecosystem.
š« Digital Connectivity Projects Expanding in Islamabad
According to officials, fiber internet connectivity has already been provided to government schools and health units in Islamabad.
Authorities also stated that work on free public internet hotspots in the federal capital is nearing completion. In addition, e-learning pods are being installed at locations including Saidpur Model Village and Fatima Jinnah Park to improve access to digital education resources.
The projects are aimed at promoting digital learning, improving public access to internet services, and encouraging technology-based educational initiatives.
šļø PM Directs Wider Digital Inclusion Across Pakistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed officials to speed up work on establishing easy service centers in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
He also instructed authorities to coordinate with provincial and district governments to reduce the digital divide between urban and rural communities. Officials believe expanding internet access and digital services in remote regions could improve education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and economic development.
Government representatives reiterated their commitment to strengthening Pakistanās digital transformation and creating a more connected national economy.