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’s mobile phone market continues to strengthen its local assembly capabilities, significantly reducing dependency on imports and enhancing domestic production. Meanwhile, regulatory vigilance remains high with strong consumer complaint resolution, reflecting efforts to ensure quality and reliability in telecom services.
Pakistan’s telecom sector has witnessed substantial increases in data usage, broadband subscriptions, and network infrastructure, indicating a vibrant and expanding digital ecosystem. However, challenges remain as revenues have declined, reflecting a complex market dynamic in a rapidly evolving industry.
Pakistan’s Ministry of IT and Telecom confirms ongoing dialogue with Microsoft amid reports of the company exiting after 25 years. The ministry frames this as a strategic shift toward a partner-led cloud model rather than a market exit, while former Microsoft Pakistan manager highlights the exit’s significance and underlying economic challenges.
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.
Microsoft is closing its subsidiary in Pakistan, shifting to support customers through partners and regional offices. The decision follows business model changes and reflects challenges in Pakistan’s tech investment climate, despite the country’s large population and government initiatives to boost the IT sector.
Pakistan assembled 12.5 million mobile phones locally in the first five months of 2025, significantly outpacing imports which declined by over 16%. PTA recorded 10,000 telecom complaints in May with a 98% resolution rate. Smartphones make up 67% of devices on Pakistan’s networks, highlighting strong local production and ongoing sector improvements.
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.
A Pakistani student team from IST won the Best AI Use Award at the APAC Solution Challenge 2025 for their AI-driven disaster preparedness solution, while another team from NUCES FAST also reached the top 10. These achievements reflect Pakistan’s rising potential in artificial intelligence and innovation on the global stage.
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.
PITB and Pakistan Railways have initiated the development of digital inspection software to enhance transparency and efficiency in railway operations, reflecting Pakistan’s broader push for e-governance and modern public services.