Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was informed on Monday that Pakistan’s information technology exports are projected to reach between $4.5 billion and $4.6 billion in the current fiscal year, according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
The briefing was given during a meeting chaired by the prime minister to review matters related to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication.
Officials informed the meeting that domestic internet connectivity has expanded significantly, rising from 1.9 million connections in 2024 to 5.10 million in 2026. It was also noted that the recent 5G spectrum auction generated $509 million in revenue.
The session was further briefed on initiatives under artificial intelligence development, including the organisation of “Indus AI Week” in February 2025 across 30 cities. The event reportedly attracted more than 100 international delegates and featured 88 exhibition pavilions.
Progress on digital infrastructure projects was also highlighted. According to the briefing, fibre connectivity has been extended to government schools and health facilities in Islamabad, while the rollout of free public internet hotspots in the capital is nearing completion. E-learning pods are also being installed at Saidpur Model Village and Fatima Jinnah Park.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed that strengthening the IT sector and increasing exports remain key government priorities. He directed authorities to accelerate the establishment of Asaan Khidmat Centres in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and to coordinate with provincial governments for wider implementation.
He also stressed the need for collaboration with provincial and district administrations to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas, noting that Pakistan’s youth have significant potential in the IT sector that must be effectively utilised.