Get ready for Pakistan's digital transformation! Caretaker Minister Dr. Umar Saif announced the anticipated launch of 5G services by August 2024, promising 10-20 times faster speeds than current 4G. Imagine seamless streaming, lag-free gaming, and near-instant downloads, unlocking possibilities across healthcare, education, and more.
However, launching 5G requires infrastructure development. A 300MHz spectrum auction will pave the way for telecom operators, but expanding the fiber optic network is crucial. Currently, only a fraction of mobile towers (a mere 6,000 out of 56,000!) have fiber connections, highlighting the need for investment before nationwide accessibility becomes a reality.
While infrastructure needs work, the local mobile industry is already thriving. In just two years, nearly 9 million phones were assembled in Pakistan, valued at $1.5 billion. With 35 active brands, this vibrant ecosystem is poised for further growth, especially with the 5G launch.
The government is actively supporting this growth. Starting next year, mobile manufacturers will receive a 3% R&D allowance, gradually increasing to 8%. This aims to go beyond assembling imported components and develop the capacity to manufacture key components and fully assembled smartphones within Pakistan, strengthening the local economy and positioning the country as a tech player.
5G isn't just about faster speeds; it's a gateway to a future empowered by the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart cities. With a focus on infrastructure and local innovation, Pakistan is poised to seize this opportunity and connect to a brighter, faster future. Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting chapter unfolds!
#Pakistan5G #DigitalTransformation #ConnectTheFuture
Blog written by LAIBA…
