A recent report by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) titled “State of Mobile 2024” has highlighted a significant increase in internet data usage among Pakistanis. According to the report, the average monthly internet data usage per individual in Pakistan has reached 8.4 GB. This represents a 13.5 percent increase from the previous year, and a substantial 71 percent rise from 4.9 GB in 2020.

The report’s findings underscore a robust growth in digital engagement across the country, despite ongoing economic challenges. For Fiscal Year 2024-25, the total mobile data usage escalated to 13,002 petabytes, marking a 20 percent increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, fixed broadband usage saw a 29 percent rise, reaching 12,120 petabytes. Factors contributing to this growth include enhanced 4G coverage, a rise in smartphone adoption, and the increasing popularity of video streaming, social media, and remote work applications.

Furthermore, broadband penetration has increased to 57 percent. However, the PTA has pointed out the necessity for further infrastructure improvements, highlighting that only a limited percentage of mobile users have access to fiber networks, which are essential for high-speed and stable connectivity.

The economic aspect of data usage was also addressed in the report, noting that the average cost of mobile data per GB was Rs26.6 in FY2024, which is a 4.3 percent increase from the previous year. The Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) for mobile services rose to Rs276 per month.

The PTA’s report sheds light on the expanding digital landscape in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for continued enhancements in infrastructure to support the growing demand for internet services across the nation.