If you’ve been living under a rock for the last two months then you probably don’t know that the Punjab government imposed a tax on 3G Internet services. It was ultimately removed, until last week when the tax was reimposed. The Punjab government announced this tax on all mobile data usage.
Also Read: Punjab Government makes up its mind, imposes tax again on Internet Services
Following this announcement, our Cellular Mobile Operators (CMO’s) wasted no time in raising 3G Internet prices. Ufone and Mobilink will now have to pay 19.5% more mobile data charges. If you are subscribed to either of these networks you have probably received an intimation already. Telenor, Warid & Zong customers will also face this price hike anytime this week. Here are the new prices of some of the popular 3G bundles:
Ufone
Mobilink
Like the last time the government imposed a tax on the Internet, PTA, CMO’s and other stakeholders are reaching out to the government in order to get this tax lifted. Because on the surface it may seem only a 19.5% tax but it is going to cause a huge blow to the Pakistani economy. According to a study, 10% increase in Internet penetration can lift the GDP by 1.5%. A lot of networks were thriving on 3G customers and this tax will considerably decrease that number. This will also cause a blow to our CMO’s who had invested $10 billion in expanding the 3G network.
The government has not released any further statements and for now it looks like the tax is here to stay.
Via More Magazine
