Pakistan is among the most affordable mobile data markets in the region, with prices starting at just $0.12 per gigabyte and a 2GB mobile broadband basket priced at $1.02, according to an official document reviewed by Wealth Pakistan.
A Broadband Deals (UK) survey places Cambodia and Pakistan jointly among the world’s 10 most affordable markets for mobile data at $0.12 per gigabyte, followed by India at $0.16. A separate global comparison by the International Telecommunication Union confirms Pakistan’s 2GB mobile broadband basket as the cheapest among several regional peers, including Bangladesh at $1.29, Uzbekistan at $1.18, India at $1.86, Bhutan at $1.87, and Nepal at $2.17.
Despite this affordability, Pakistan also records one of the region’s lowest Average Revenue Per User (ARPU). In the first quarter of 2025, ARPU stood at $1.12, compared with Singapore’s $15.84, the Maldives’ $14.67, and Malaysia’s $9.14.
The document notes that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) can designate operators with Significant Market Power (SMP) in relevant markets and regulate their tariffs. Jazz has been classified as the SMP operator in Pakistan’s retail mobile market and must obtain PTA approval before altering retail prices under the Mobile Tariff Regulations 2025. Other operators, including Telenor, Ufone, and Zong, are not required to seek prior approval, though the PTA may intervene if changes harm consumer interests.
The PTA also operates a consumer complaint system through an online portal and mobile application, enabling users to report issues, request refunds, and seek regulatory action. The Authority monitors published tariffs against approved rates to ensure transparency and compliance.
Between March 2021 and May 2024, fuel prices rose by 158%, inflation increased by 83%, the policy rate surged by 214%, and the rupee depreciated by 44% against the US dollar. These pressures significantly increased operating and financing costs for mobile operators, prompting tariff adjustments.
PTA data from 2020 to 2024 shows that average annual revenue growth in the mobile industry was 9%, while average annual inflation during the same period stood at 17%, indicating that sector earnings have not kept pace with rising costs. Over five years, Jazz recorded 11% revenue growth, Telenor 3%, Zong 12%, and Ufone 11%.
