Pakistan Sees Significant Growth in Mobile Internet and Social Media Usage, PTA Reports

Islamabad: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has released new data showing notable advancements in mobile internet speeds and social media usage across the country, indicating a robust expansion in Pakistan’s telecommunications and digital sectors.

Mobile Internet Speeds and Usage Surge

According to PTA’s report, Pakistan has witnessed a substantial 28% increase in mobile internet speeds over the past year, rising from 15.65 Mbps to 20.02 Mbps. This increase is part of broader efforts to enhance mobile internet infrastructure. The report further revealed a 24.2% rise in mobile internet usage, reflecting the growing reliance on mobile data for everyday internet connectivity.

The broadband sector has also seen impressive growth, with the number of subscribers reaching a new peak of 142.3 million by September 2024. With 196 million total telecom users in the nation, the sector has reached a major turning point.

With regard to income, Pakistan’s telecom industry brought in Rs. 955 billion in the last fiscal year, underscoring its ongoing economic importance. Furthermore, 29.6 million mobile devices were produced locally, therefore supporting the nation’s rising role as a major center of manufacturing and technology.

Social Media Usage Hits New Highs

The rise in digital engagement is evident in social media statistics as well. As of January 2024, Pakistan had 60.4 million Facebook users, with 77% male and 24% female users. YouTube had 71.7 million users, with 72% male and 28% female participation. TikTok saw 54.4 million users, with 78% male and 22% female users. Instagram, while smaller in comparison, reached 17.3 million users, with 64% male and 36% female users.

The rising number of users on these platforms demonstrates a changing digital terrain that emphasizes social media’s ever more important part in Pakistani daily life.

Driven by higher internet speeds, growing mobile internet use, and a spike in social media interaction, the PTA’s report highlights Pakistan’s ongoing development of its digital and telecom industries. These advancements show Pakistan’s increasing digital capacity and relevance on the global digital map as the nation strives toward a more linked future.