Pakistan’s information technology exports are expected to surpass $4.5 billion this year as the government accelerates efforts to expand the country’s digital economy, Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja informed the National Assembly this week.
Shaza told lawmakers that improved macroeconomic stability since 2022 had supported growth in the technology industry.
She said stabilization of the dollar helped resolve problems related to letters of credit that had previously disrupted business operations.
The minister said ongoing government initiatives were helping increase export revenues while strengthening investor and business confidence in the IT sector.
She noted that Pakistan is training more than 500,000 children annually to develop a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the global digital market.
Responding to a question raised by MNA Sharmila Faruqui regarding internet services after the upcoming 5G spectrum auction, the minister said connectivity would improve further once the auction process is completed.
She added that Pakistan had conducted one of the world’s largest spectrum auctions, involving 480 megahertz of spectrum, which is expected to significantly enhance 4G internet speeds.
During the session, MNA Malik Anwar Taj highlighted concerns about slow internet services in various regions. The minister acknowledged service gaps and said the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority was actively working to improve network performance and service delivery.
Addressing questions related to digital harassment and data theft raised by lawmakers, including Shahida Akhtar Ali and Shazia Sobia, the minister said authorities regularly issue public advisories warning citizens against sharing OTPs and PIN codes.
The IT Minister emphasized that awareness remains a key tool in preventing cyber fraud, while MNA Shazia Marri called for a comprehensive national awareness campaign and stronger media engagement to combat digital crimes effectively.
