Pakistan’s Telecom Sector Generated Revenue of Over Rs. 1 Trillion in 2026: PTA

Pakistan’s telecom sector has achieved a major milestone by generating more than Rs. 1 trillion in revenue during 2025–26, according to the Annual Report of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The report highlights strong growth in subscribers, broadband usage, investment, and digital infrastructure, showing that telecom continues to be one of Pakistan’s most resilient and fast-growing sectors.

With over 200 million total subscribers, expanding 4G coverage, rising internet usage, and improved cyber security standards, Pakistan’s telecom industry is playing a critical role in the country’s digital economy and national development.

Telecom Revenue Crosses Rs. 1 Trillion Mark

According to PTA, telecom operators in Pakistan generated over Rs. 1 trillion in revenue during the year, representing a 12 percent year-on-year increase.

Why This Growth Matters

• Shows strong consumer demand
• Reflects rising data and broadband usage
• Demonstrates sector stability despite economic challenges

This revenue milestone confirms telecom as a key pillar of Pakistan’s economy in 2026.

Telecom Sector Contribution to National Exchequer

The PTA report states that the telecom sector contributed Rs. 402 billion to the national exchequer during the year.

Forms of Contribution

• Taxes and duties
• License and spectrum fees
• Regulatory charges

This significant contribution highlights the sector’s role in supporting government revenues.

Total Telecom Subscribers Cross 200 Million

Pakistan’s total telecom subscribers crossed 200 million, showing continued expansion in connectivity.

Subscriber Growth Highlights

• Strong mobile user growth
• Increased adoption in rural areas
• Wider access to affordable telecom services

This growth reflects Pakistan’s transition toward a digitally connected society.

Broadband Connections Exceed 150 Million

Broadband connections in Pakistan crossed 150 million, marking a major achievement.

Broadband Penetration

• Broadband penetration crossed 60 percent
• Increased reliance on mobile internet
• Growth driven by online education, freelancing, and digital services

Broadband expansion has become central to economic activity and daily life.

Mobile Network Coverage Reaches 92 Percent Area

PTA reported that telecom services now cover 92 percent of Pakistan’s geographical area.

Impact of Wider Coverage

• Improved rural connectivity
• Better access to online services
• Enhanced communication during emergencies

This expansion supports inclusive digital growth.

95 Percent of Mobile Networks Shifted to 4G

One of the most important highlights is that 95 percent of mobile networks have shifted to 4G technology.

Benefits of 4G Expansion

• Faster internet speeds
• Better call quality
• Improved mobile services

This lays the groundwork for future technologies such as 5G.

Internet Data Usage Hits Record High

Internet usage in Pakistan reached a new record, with total data consumption at 27,727 petabytes during the year.

Reasons for High Data Consumption

• Video streaming
• Social media usage
• Remote work and freelancing
• Online education and e-commerce

This trend shows how deeply the internet is now embedded in daily life.

Telecom Investment Reaches $838 Million

Investment in Pakistan’s telecom sector remained strong.

Investment Highlights

• Total investment: $838 million
• Growth: 9 percent year-on-year
• Combination of local and foreign investment

PTA credited supportive policies and network expansion for maintaining investor confidence.

Improved International Connectivity with New Submarine Cables

Pakistan strengthened its global internet connectivity by adding four new submarine cables.

Why Submarine Cables Matter

• Faster international internet traffic
• Improved reliability
• Reduced network congestion

This upgrade enhances Pakistan’s position in the global digital ecosystem.

Local Mobile Manufacturing Shows Strong Growth

Local manufacturing made significant progress.

Manufacturing Highlights

• 95 percent of mobile phones sold in Pakistan are locally produced
• 68 percent of locally made devices are smartphones

Local production helps:

• Reduce imports
• Save foreign exchange
• Create jobs

Smartphone Adoption Continues to Rise

The growing share of smartphones indicates:

• Increased digital literacy
• Higher app usage
• Growth of mobile-based services

This trend supports Pakistan’s digital transformation goals.

Cyber Security Ranking Improves Further

PTA reported improvement in Pakistan’s global cyber security ranking.

Key Cyber Security Developments

• Stronger regulations
• Better coordination
• Increased awareness

Improved cyber security boosts trust in digital services.

Consumer Protection Measures Reduce Complaints

Stronger consumer protection resulted in a 13 percent reduction in telecom complaints.

Areas of Improvement

• Billing transparency
• Service quality
• Complaint resolution mechanisms

This shows progress in customer satisfaction and regulation.

Role of PTA in Telecom Growth

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority played a key role by:

• Implementing supportive policies
• Ensuring fair competition
• Protecting consumer rights

PTA’s regulatory framework helped maintain sector stability.

Telecom Sector as Backbone of Digital Economy

The telecom sector supports:

• E-commerce
• Fintech
• Freelancing
• Online education
• Digital government services

Its growth directly impacts economic productivity.

Challenges Facing the Telecom Industry

Despite growth, challenges remain:

• Rising operational costs
• Energy prices
• Spectrum costs

Addressing these issues will be crucial for sustained expansion.

Outlook for Telecom Sector in 2026

Looking ahead, the sector is expected to:

• Continue subscriber growth
• Expand broadband penetration
• Prepare for 5G deployment
• Increase digital inclusion

PTA’s data suggests a positive outlook for 2026.

Importance of Telecom for Youth and Freelancers

Pakistan’s youth and freelance workforce depend heavily on:

• Reliable internet
• Affordable data packages

Telecom growth directly supports employment and income generation.

Telecom’s Role in Digital Pakistan Vision

The sector aligns closely with Pakistan’s Digital Pakistan vision, enabling:

• Online services
• Smart governance
• Digital innovation

Regional Comparison

Pakistan’s telecom growth places it among leading digital markets in the region, especially in mobile broadband adoption.

Conclusion

The PTA Annual Report confirms that Pakistan’s telecom sector delivered a strong performance in 2026, with revenues exceeding Rs. 1 trillion, rising investment, expanding coverage, and improved service quality.

With over 200 million subscribers, growing broadband access, local manufacturing strength, and better cyber security, telecom continues to be a driving force behind Pakistan’s digital and economic progress.

As the country moves into 2026, the telecom sector remains well-positioned to support innovation, connectivity, and inclusive growth.

Pakistan Telecom Sector 2026 FAQs – PTA Report Explained