When can we expect the internet disruption in Pakistan to improve?
The ongoing internet disruption in Pakistan is significantly affecting the country’s online business sector. Freelancers have reported a substantial decline in client orders as internet connectivity issues persist.
Many businesses, including offices and commercial centers, are experiencing intermittent or suspended internet services, leading to widespread complaints about slow speeds. The disruption is hindering basic online functions, including downloads and communications.
Pakistan, with its 180 million mobile users and over 110 million internet users, faces substantial challenges. More than 70 million of these internet users engage with social media platforms, but are currently grappling with reduced connectivity, affecting both personal and business activities.
E-commerce activities, particularly on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, are being severely impacted, as entrepreneurs struggle to conduct their operations efficiently.
Global freelancing platform Fiverr has indicated that Pakistani freelancers are currently listed as unavailable due to these connectivity issues. Similarly, local traders and those working with Amazon are reporting significant disruptions to their services.
IT experts estimate that Pakistan’s e-commerce market, valued at approximately $3 billion, is suffering substantial economic losses due to the internet shutdown. Dr. Muhammad Mubashir, an IT specialist, emphasized the need for robust cybersecurity measures, such as the installation of firewalls, to protect cyber systems from fraud, misinformation, and terrorism.
Dr. Mubashir noted that while firewalls are crucial for securing digital communications, their installation in Pakistan has lagged compared to developed countries. The current disruptions are partly attributed to these cybersecurity measures, though Dr. Mubashir expressed optimism that internet speeds will improve by the end of August as experts work to enhance network performance.
