Govt eyes cashless economy with 5G and Digital Pakistan push, says Shaza Khawaja

Pakistan is accelerating its push toward a digital economy, with Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima highlighting progress on 5G rollout and broader connectivity goals under the government’s Digital Pakistan vision.

Speaking about the country’s digital transformation, the minister noted that 3G and 4G services, introduced in 2016, laid the foundation for expanding internet access nationwide. She added that the number of mobile users continues to grow steadily, reflecting increasing reliance on digital services across sectors.

Fatima said the government, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is working to advance Digital Pakistan by improving infrastructure and expanding high-speed connectivity. She revealed that the bidding process for 5G spectrum was successfully completed last month, marking a key step toward next-generation internet services.

The minister noted that internet access plays a critical role in economic development, particularly in sectors such as health and education. She added that improved connectivity and modern technology would help bridge social and economic gaps while enhancing service delivery.

According to Fatima, the introduction of 5G is expected to significantly increase internet speeds, create new employment opportunities, and support innovation across industries. She also pointed to the growing shift toward a cashless economy, saying digital platforms are increasingly shaping financial transactions and everyday life in Pakistan.