Can Pakistan’s Digital Economy Survive The Internet Crackdown?

There are growing worries about the long-term effects on Pakistan's digital economy as a result of the country's pervasive internet problems.

Photo Credit: Qonversations/Runway

There are growing worries about the long-term effects on Pakistan’s digital economy as a result of the country’s pervasive internet problems.

The Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) has expressed grave concerns on the effects of security and surveillance measures implemented by the government, which have resulted in notable decreases in internet speeds

The arguments

Economic Consequences

Businesses are suffering greatly as a result of the slowdown in internet speeds, particularly those that depend on dependable internet connectivity. This could force enterprises to relocate abroad.

Effects on the Digital Economy

Pakistan’s digital economy is being hampered by internet problems, which impact not just online companies but also necessary services like ride-hailing.

Accountability and Transparency in Government

Critics contend that wider economic and social problems are a result of the government’s opaqueness in enforcing internet prohibitions. They argue that these problems have serious economic ramifications and go beyond simple technological errors.

Worldwide Perception

Pakistan’s international reputation is being harmed by the persistent problems with internet connectivity and the way the government is addressing the subject, which could discourage future investments.

Necessity for Dialogue

An inclusive and transparent approach by the government is necessary to mitigate the impact of increased surveillance and improve the situation for businesses and individuals alike

The facts

There has been a reported 30% to 40% reduction in internet speeds, severely affecting various sectors, especially those reliant on online operations.

Chairman of WISPAP, Shahzad Arshad, noted that many customers are encountering a disheartening situation and are opting to leave smaller ISPs due to the poor quality of service.

“If this continues, we will see a mass exodus of businesses from Pakistan,” he was quoted to have said by geo.tv.

Ride-hailing services, e-commerce, and online enterprises have all been badly impacted by the internet slowness. Pakistani WhatsApp users have also experienced delays and failed content.

Though the government has not made this clear, the slowness is related to testing of an internet firewall intended to control social media and filter harmful content.

Concerns concerning Pakistan’s digital market’s sustainability have been raised by the country’s persistent internet problems, and foreign opinions of Pakistan are deteriorating.