Pakistan to Build New Submarine Cable Landing Stations to Boost Internet Connectivity

Pakistan is set to strengthen its digital backbone by establishing new submarine cable landing stations outside Karachi, aiming to enhance internet connectivity, attract global investment, and reduce reliance on a single hub.

At present, all seven of Pakistan’s submarine cables are connected through Karachi. However, with three additional cables expected soon, the government is considering Gwadar and other coastal cities as alternative landing points. This expansion is designed to minimize risks and improve the resilience of the country’s internet infrastructure.

IT Exports and Freelancing on the Rise

Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima, revealed that Pakistan’s official IT exports have touched $3.8 billion, though actual figures may be nearly double. A major share of this growth is fueled by freelancers, who continue to play a vital role in Pakistan’s digital economy.

To accelerate this momentum, the government has established the Pakistan Digital Authority and launched several initiatives under the Digital Nation Pakistan program. Among them, the flagship DigiSkills program has already trained 300,000 people in freelancing and digital skills, with another 300,000 currently in training. In partnership with global tech giants such as Google and Huawei, Pakistan has set a target to train 1 million individuals in digital skills.

“Our vision is that every child in Pakistan should have access to high-speed internet. Within the next three to four years, Pakistan will emerge as a digitally transformed country, Insha’Allah,” said Shaza Fatima.

Push for Fiberization and Digital Infrastructure

Currently, only 14% of telecom towers in Pakistan are fiberized, compared to over 50% in regional markets. To address this gap, the government is focusing on improving fiber connectivity to boost internet speeds and support digital transformation.

One of the biggest hurdles has been the high Right of Way (RoW) charges and lengthy approval processes. To overcome these challenges, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has already abolished RoW charges, while the Prime Minister’s Office has instructed the National Highway Authority (NHA) and Pakistan Railways to follow suit. Additionally, a fast-track approval portal has been introduced to streamline the process for investors.

Expanding Internet Access through Satellite

Alongside submarine cable expansion, efforts are also underway to bring satellite internet to Pakistan. Agencies including the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Pakistan Space Activity Regulatory Board are developing frameworks for satellite-based services. Several international companies from the US, China, and other countries have already applied for licenses, with regulations expected to be finalized soon.

Vision for a Digitally Transformed Pakistan

Currently, 98% of Pakistan’s internet users depend on mobile broadband and Wi-Fi, with only 2% connected through fiber. The government’s long-term plan is to increase fiber penetration to 40–60%, while also diversifying access points through new submarine cable landing stations and satellite connectivity.

By removing policy bottlenecks, improving infrastructure, and encouraging private sector participation, Pakistan aims to establish itself as a regional digital hub in the coming years.