Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Sri Lanka is developing a hybrid cloud infrastructure combining local sovereign and global public cloud services to support its digital identity program and broader data governance. The National Data Exchange and digital credentialing systems complement this infrastructure as the country targets rapid digital economic growth driven by AI and cloud technologies.
Pakistan has taken a major step in regulating its digital assets ecosystem by establishing the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA). This new independent body will license and oversee virtual asset providers, enforce AML protocols, and align with global standards. The move reflects Pakistan’s ambitions to become a South Asian digital assets hub following recent crypto policy developments.
Oman’s TRA has intensified field inspections against illegal wireless networks redistributing internet without licenses, citing risks to network security, service quality, and user data. The authority is enforcing legal actions and equipment removals, urging compliance to protect the telecommunications ecosystem.
Algeria’s government convened to accelerate flagship projects including Gara Djebilet mining and railway, digital infrastructure expansion, university service improvements, and enhanced summer transport logistics, reflecting strategic goals for industrial sovereignty, digital transformation, and citizen well-being.
Pakistan’s 5G spectrum auction is delayed due to PTCL’s incomplete submissions for its Telenor acquisition, stalling regulatory approval by the Competition Commission. Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirmed the independent regulatory process as the main bottleneck amid merger uncertainties.
Bahrain’s Central Bank has introduced a comprehensive stablecoin regulatory framework mandating licensed issuance, full fiat backing with a 1:1 reserve ratio, and robust governance measures. The rules aim to ensure legal clarity, consumer protection, and financial stability, reinforcing Bahrain’s leadership in regulated digital assets and fintech innovation.
Pakistan’s IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja has urged the Auction Advisory Committee to meet and progress the 5G spectrum auction. The meeting is expected to be chaired by the Finance Minister following the budget. The government also awaits the Competition Commission’s approval on a telecom merger. A finalized 5G report will guide auction decisions, supporting the PM’s goal of $25 billion IT exports and imminent 5G rollout.
Bahrain’s Ministerial Committee for ICT, led by Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, convened to discuss advancements in the country’s digital transformation and consumer protection. The meeting highlighted Bahrain’s progress under royal directives, including initiatives to improve government service efficiency and strengthen e-commerce confidence through anti-fraud measures. Key agenda items included ICT projects in diplomacy, draft legislation for 2025, and a unified government website template. The committee reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing digital services for all citizens and residents.
Pakistan’s PTA will deactivate SIM cards registered to deceased persons from June 2025 to curb misuse in fraud and terrorism. The phased crackdown, in collaboration with NADRA, requires heirs to update ownership records to avoid disconnection, supporting national cybersecurity and identity verification efforts.
Bangladesh’s telecom regulator requires ISPs to issue detailed payment receipts and maintain standardized billing records to improve transparency and accountability. The move addresses consumer complaints and includes periodic inspections to enforce compliance across the sector.