The Senate Standing Committee has called on the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to reconsider mobile phone taxes, with an emphasis on reducing them to more affordable levels for the public. However, it’s important to note that the PTA does not have the authority to adjust these taxes and this duty falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
During the recent committee meeting, the Secretary of IT and Telecom updated members on the anticipated benefits of a fiberization policy and the rollout of 5G technology, which are projected to significantly improve internet services across the country.
An official from the IT Ministry announced a significant 37% rise in IT exports for 2024, totaling $3.3 billion in the first 11 months, in contrast to $2.4 billion during the same period in 2023. Considering this expansion, the compound annual growth rate for the last five years is recorded at 23%.
The Secretary of IT and Telecom released plans to enhance internet connectivity by introducing four additional submarine cables, with three anticipated to be operational in the coming year.
Some senators raised questions on the persistent communication challenges in some of the areas such as Balochistan and KPK. Another senator cited slow internet connections in Sindh’s provincial capital, particularly in Larkana, despite significant investment in this area.
The committee also deliberated on the impact of a shutdown of the internet in the affected districts. PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman said that there are certain issues in laying down the fiber connectivity in Balochistan.
On the other hand, the Secretary of IT and Telecom briefed the committee that the USF has started projects in the merged districts of Ex-FATA in which ₨. 3 billion have been spent for connectivity.
