Islamabad, July 31, 2024 – Pakistan’s cellular subscriber base continues to expand, reaching 192.53 million by the end of June 2024, according to data released by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). This represents a slight increase from the 192.32 million subscribers recorded in May, underscoring the ongoing growth in the country’s telecom sector.
The number of 3G and 4G users also saw growth, climbing from 133.26 million in May to 134.87 million in June. As a result, Next Generation Mobile Service (NGMS) penetration improved from 55.07% to 55.61%, while cellular teledensity remained steady at 79%. This increase in NGMS users highlights the continued adoption of advanced mobile technologies across Pakistan.
A breakdown of the data reveals mixed performance among mobile operators. Jazz and Zong experienced growth in 4G subscribers, both seeing a rise in their user bases. However, these gains were offset by declines in their 3G subscriber numbers. Similarly, Telenor and Ufone reported increases in 4G subscriptions but faced decreases in their 3G user bases. This trend suggests a shift in consumer preference towards faster and more reliable 4G services, with older 3G technology gradually being phased out.
In terms of consumer complaints, the PTA received 16,245 complaints against telecom operators in June, of which an impressive 98.4% were resolved. The high resolution rate of complaints reflects positively on the regulatory authority’s effectiveness and the telecom operators’ responsiveness to customer issues. Most of the complaints were related to service quality, billing issues, and mobile number portability.
The steady growth in cellular subscriptions indicates increasing mobile phone penetration in Pakistan, which could have significant implications for the digital economy and financial inclusion. Enhanced mobile connectivity facilitates access to a variety of digital services, including mobile banking, e-commerce, and online education. This connectivity is particularly crucial in rural and underserved areas, where traditional infrastructure is often lacking.
Moreover, the rise in 4G users bodes well for Pakistan’s aspirations to become a digitally empowered nation. The availability of high-speed internet through mobile networks can drive innovation, support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and enable access to global markets. It also aligns with the government’s Digital Pakistan initiative, which aims to promote digital literacy and integrate technology into all aspects of governance and daily life.
As the cellular subscriber base grows, the telecom sector is expected to see increased investments in infrastructure and technology. Mobile operators may continue to expand their networks and improve service quality to cater to the rising demand for data and connectivity. This competitive environment could lead to more affordable and accessible mobile services for consumers, further boosting the sector’s growth.
The continued expansion of Pakistan’s cellular subscriber base is a positive sign for the country’s digital future, promising enhanced connectivity, economic growth, and improved quality of life for its citizens.