Pakistan’s tech sector faces significant challenges due to frequent internet disruptions and slowdowns. These issues have put the critical services and IT sector at risk, which accounts for more than half of the country’s jobs. Brothers Shiraz and Shayaan Akhtar, who quit their corporate jobs to enter the world of online freelancing, are now struggling to maintain their careers due to the internet problems that began in August.
Local media reports suggest that these disruptions stem from a government-imposed “national firewall” to regulate and monitor online content. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) expects the disruption to last until October, causing concern for freelancers like Shiraz and Shayaan, who fear losing potential international clients on vital platforms like Upwork. “I have to change my working hours and work all night,” said Shiraz.
Pakistan tech sector’s internet woes
“I have to tell my clients I won’t be able to come in. It’s tough for them to understand because they live in highly developed countries.
Outsourcing firms, such as Mars BPO, are also facing challenges, with typical data speeds now just 40 percent of usual capacity, threatening their survival.
Shah Sultan, the lead operations manager, warned that the impact on foreign remittance brought in by the IT industry, which he called Pakistan’s “backbone,” could be severe. Despite the rapid growth in Pakistan’s technology exports, which increased from $1 billion in 2018 to nearly $2.6 billion in 2023, these frequent internet issues could shut down the burgeoning industry. The Pakistan Software Houses Association estimated that recent disruptions could cost the national economy $300 million, and analysts warn that the government’s ambition to make Islamabad a thriving digital hub could be jeopardized.
The ongoing struggles in the tech sector highlight the critical need for reliable internet connectivity to sustain Pakistan’s growth and integration into the global digital economy. The government and relevant authorities must address these issues promptly to prevent further damage to the country’s economic prospects.
Rashan is a seasoned technology journalist and visionary leader serving as the Editor-in-Chief of DevX.com, a leading online publication focused on software development, programming languages, and emerging technologies. With his deep expertise in the tech industry and her passion for empowering developers, Rashan has transformed DevX.com into a vibrant hub of knowledge and innovation. Reach out to Rashan at [email protected]
