Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Pakistan is launching its first National IT Industry Census to build a verified database of the country’s IT and IT-enabled services sector. Led by PSEB, the initiative will support data-driven policymaking, improve export and skills planning, and help identify growth opportunities across regions and technology specializations.
Pakistan will assume the presidency of the Digital Cooperation Organization Council in February 2026 during the Fifth General Assembly in Kuwait. As a founding member, Pakistan’s leadership role highlights its growing influence in global digital cooperation, following initiatives such as hosting the DCO’s Digital FDI Forum and supporting inclusive digital growth.
Pakistan and China have signed 24 technology MoUs covering digital infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and skills development. The agreements aim to build a digital corridor, train hundreds of thousands of Pakistani youths, expand ICT exports, and accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation through global partnerships.
Engro has secured $475 million in one of Pakistan’s largest Shariah-compliant financings to acquire Deodar and over 10,000 telecom towers. The deal strengthens shared telecom infrastructure, supports cost efficiency, and aligns with Pakistan’s push for digital connectivity and Islamic finance-led growth.
Veon’s Mobilink Bank has launched Islamic banking services in Pakistan, opening its first Shariah-compliant branch in Karachi and planning nationwide expansion. The move taps into the country’s fast-growing Islamic banking sector, supporting financial inclusion and offering faith-aligned deposit and financing products through physical and digital channels.
Pakistan’s telecom regulator has indicated that the 5G spectrum auction may take place by mid-February 2026, pending the release of the auction information memorandum. The announcement signals renewed momentum for 5G deployment while highlighting rising cybersecurity risks and the need for stronger digital awareness among users.
Pakistan is seeking Chinese fintech investment to expand digital lending, boost SME financing, and advance financial inclusion. Talks with Fintopia China highlighted Pakistan’s underbanked market, regulatory reforms, and incentives aimed at attracting foreign fintech firms as part of a broader digital economy strategy.
Pakistan held high-level talks with Ant Group and Easypaisa to expand digital payments and fintech services, focusing on financial inclusion, cashless transactions, and digital lending. The discussions explored QR-based payments, digital banking, tokenisation, and regulated fintech frameworks to support Pakistan’s transition to a digitally enabled economy.
Pakistan is nearing the launch of 5G services as the PTA finalizes preparations for a spectrum auction expected before Ramazan. With the Information Memorandum due shortly and the auction potentially scheduled for mid-February, the move is seen as a key milestone in advancing digital connectivity, innovation, and next-generation services across the country.
Pakistan’s PTA and UNDP concluded Cybersecurity Awareness Week 2025 with a national campaign promoting cyber hygiene, digital safety, and information integrity. The initiative brought together government, telecom operators, and international partners, reinforcing cybersecurity as a key pillar of Pakistan’s digital transformation and consumer trust.