Pakistan’s Telcos Revenue Crosses Rs. 1 Billion With Nearly 150 Million 4G Users

Pakistan’s telecom sector recorded strong growth across key performance indicators between 2022-23 and 2024-25, with total revenues reaching Rs 1.075 billion, according to a written reply submitted to the Senate of Pakistan by the Cabinet Division.

Broadband penetration increased by 13.1 percent during the period, rising from 53.6 percent to 60.6 percent. Total broadband subscribers grew by 18.1 percent to reach 150 million. This expansion was largely driven by a 26.4 percent increase in 4G users, which climbed from 111.9 million to 141.4 million.

Mobile subscribers also posted steady growth of 3.6 percent, reaching 197.8 million nationwide. Mobile data consumption rose sharply by 30.4 percent, increasing from 10,850 petabytes to 14,153 petabytes, reflecting higher digital usage across the country.

Network infrastructure continued to strengthen, with the number of operational cell sites increasing by 9 percent to 58,423. This expansion helped improve service coverage and capacity in both urban and rural areas.

Financial indicators highlighted strong sector performance. Telecom revenues grew by 31.6 percent to Rs 1,075 billion, while investment in the sector increased by 8.8 percent. Foreign direct investment inflows rose by 67.2 percent, indicating renewed investor confidence. Average revenue per user (ARPU) improved by 33.6 percent, rising from Rs 229 to Rs 306 per month. The sector contributed Rs 402 billion to the national exchequer, marking a 17.9 percent increase.

The reply also detailed the regulatory and supervisory role of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), which regulates the establishment, operation, and maintenance of telecommunication systems and services.

PTA manages radio-frequency spectrum allocation, promotes competition, protects consumer interests, ensures compliance with licensing obligations, and supports the modernization of telecom infrastructure.

According to the report, the authority also oversees dispute resolution among licensees, regulates revenue-sharing arrangements, monitors universal service obligations, and provides policy recommendations to the federal government on international telecommunications. In addition, local device assembly recorded growth of 101.5 percent, highlighting progress toward strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity in the telecom sector.