Pakistan’s Mobile Data Consumption Surges
Pakistan’s growing reliance on mobile connectivity continues to reshape daily life. Recent findings show that the average Pakistani now consumes 8.4 GB of mobile data per month. This figure comes from the State of Apps 2024 report by Data Darbar, which references Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) statistics.
The report indicates a 13.5% increase in monthly data consumption compared to the previous year, when the average user consumed 7.4 GB. In 2020, mobile users consumed just 4.9 GB per month. Overall, this represents a 71% increase over the last four years, highlighting rapid growth in mobile usage.
Mobile Connectivity Remains Essential
Despite economic uncertainty, mobile internet has become a core utility for Pakistanis. The report emphasizes that people continue to prioritize connectivity, even amid inflation and decreasing purchasing power.
During FY24, total mobile data usage across Pakistan reached 13,002 petabytes, a 20% year-over-year increase. Meanwhile, fixed broadband usage grew by 29%, reaching 12,120 petabytes. This surge is driven by wider smartphone adoption, improved 4G coverage, and increased use of video streaming, social media, and remote work applications.
Broadband Penetration and Infrastructure Challenges
Broadband penetration climbed to 57% in FY24, reflecting a significant shift from slower 2G and 3G networks to faster 4G connections. However, infrastructure limitations remain. Only 9% of mobile towers are linked to fiber networks, which constrains speed and network stability in several regions.
Additionally, the effective cost of mobile data rose slightly, with users paying an average of Rs. 26.6 per GB, marking a 4.3% increase from the previous year. This follows years of declining data prices, as telecom operators adjusted rates to improve profitability. The average monthly revenue per user (ARPU) also increased to Rs. 276.
Drivers of Digital Growth
The rapid expansion of mobile data usage in Pakistan is fueled by several key factors:
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Smartphone adoption: More Pakistanis are using smartphones capable of high-speed data consumption.
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Improved network coverage: Expanded 4G networks support higher data speeds and accessibility.
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Remote work and online services: Increased reliance on online applications has boosted mobile data demand.
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Entertainment consumption: Social media, video streaming, and gaming continue to drive data usage.
Affordability and Future Prospects
Experts warn that affordability and infrastructure challenges may hinder future growth if unaddressed. Sustained investments are needed to ensure faster internet speeds, broader network access, and stable connectivity across urban and rural areas.
Nevertheless, Pakistan’s digital ecosystem shows strong momentum. Mobile internet has become an indispensable part of modern life, supporting communication, business, and entertainment for millions. Continued expansion and modernization of telecom infrastructure will be key to meeting growing demand.
