For many Pakistanis interacting with foreigners, questions about the country’s democracy, human rights, or security have always been uncomfortable, but manageable. However, in recent years, the nature of these questions has shifted from small talk to concerns directly affecting business operations. Instead of merely asking about safety, clients are now asking whether projects can be guaranteed in light of the country’s ongoing internet issues.
This shift reflects the growing challenges facing Pakistan’s digital economy, already burdened with macroeconomic instability, limited capital, and a talent shortage. Adding to these issues is the staggering number of internet shutdowns. According to Top10VPN, Pakistan ranked second globally in 2024 for the longest internet shutdowns, with 1,861 hours, behind only Myanmar. These shutdowns cost the country approximately $351 million, with Pakistan’s 83 million users representing over 40% of disruptions in the top 15 most affected countries.
The duration of internet shutdowns has skyrocketed by 619% from 2023, pushing Pakistan from seventh to second place globally. This has significantly increased the financial burden on local businesses, especially tech companies, which have been a strong contributor to Pakistan’s dollar inflows, with the information and communication sector earning $3.3 billion in 2024. While the shutdowns don’t erase these earnings, they increase operational costs and discourage tech companies from bringing in additional foreign exchange.
The impact is also seen in declining internet usage. Cloudflare reports that Pakistan’s web traffic has decreased throughout 2024, with the country experiencing only a 3% growth in internet usage compared to the global average of 17%. Additionally, Pakistan’s average internet speed of 22MBps lags behind regional peers like the Philippines (97MBps), Bangladesh (37MBps), and Indonesia (31MBps).
Beyond the financial cost, internet shutdowns erode the confidence of young, talented Pakistanis. With the value of their money declining and the cost of living rising, many see little reason to stay in a country where basic freedoms, including internet access, are increasingly restricted. This only adds to the brain drain as young professionals seek opportunities abroad.
