The GSMA hosted the second Digital Nation Summit, recognizing efforts by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, PTA, and mobile operators in advancing Pakistan’s digital landscape.

At the summit, the GSMA released a report titled *Unlocking Pakistan’s Digital Potential*, highlighting policy opportunities to close a significant mobile-internet usage gap and position Pakistan as a regional digital leader. Julian Gorman, Head of Asia Pacific at GSMA, noted that while 81% of the population is covered by mobile broadband and 68% own smartphones, only 29% utilized mobile internet last year, indicating a 52% usage gap.

Gorman stressed the need for reforms to overcome policy barriers such as high spectrum prices, heavy taxation, and regulatory uncertainty, which hinder investment.

Key findings of the report include:
– **Spectrum Allocation Opportunity**: Pakistan has low IMT spectrum allocations, delaying its 5G auction.
– **Sustainable Spectrum Pricing**: High spectrum costs threaten coverage and service quality.
– **Mobile Sector Taxation**: Combined taxes on mobile usage are among the highest in the region.
– **Mobile Usage Gap**: 52% of broadband-covered Pakistanis do not utilize the service due to affordability and literacy barriers.
– **Gender Progress**: Women’s mobile internet adoption rose from 33% to 45%.
– **Addressing Digital Fraud**: Increased digital fraud undermines trust, necessitating a scalable response.

Federal Minister for IT & Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, highlighted the government’s commitment to shaping a resilient digital ecosystem to boost economic growth and ensure inclusivity. Notable initiatives include launching data centers, operationalizing tech parks, and expanding internet access in underserved areas.

To accelerate digital progress, the GSMA report recommends comprehensive spectrum reforms, aligning fiscal policies with digital goals, reducing heavy taxes, and incentivizing infrastructure investments.