Key Indicators:
Individuals using internet, Broadband internet subscribers per 100 pop, Active mobile broadband Internet subscriptions per 100 pop, 3G mobile network coverage rate, Use of digital payments, Use of digital platforms for providing transportation and shipping, Use of digital platform for providing hotels, restaurants and leisure activities services, Power losses
Note: This pillar measures the availability and use of information and communication technology infrastructure and digital services.
In the real world of tourism and hospitality sectors, information and communication technology (ICT) are crucial. It has been shown that ICT is utilized for e-marketing, e-strategic management, providing security, and providing services related to travel and hospitality.[86]
The Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024 ranks the country at 112 with a score of 3.30 in the pillar ICT Readiness.[87] Internet access saw a significant improvement but still requires work to be improved as the country ranking is 118 in the Individuals using Internet indicator. For the Broadband internet subscribers, active mobile broadband internet subscribers, and 3G mobile network coverage indicators, the country is ranked at 108, 107, and 114 respectively.[88]
As of January 2024, the percentage of internet users in Pakistan was 45.7% (111 million). Comparing this to the previous year, there has been a notable growth of 27.1% (24 million). The percentage of people using social media was 29.5, Furthermore, 77.8% (188.9 million) of the total population had active cellular mobile connections across the nation.[89]
According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) annual report, the number of telecom users has increased by 25% to an astounding 192.3 million in the last 5 years. While the number of broadband subscribers rose to 130.1 million (110 % growth in 5 years). Moreover, 90% of the population can access cellular mobile services, while 3G and 4G signals extend to 80%.[90]
Since early 2024, Pakistan’s 128 million internet users have faced significant disruptions, including repeated outages of mobile networks and social media platforms. In January alone, major platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram were inaccessible on several occasions, and many users have been disconnected from X (formerly Twitter) for months now, marking the longest disruption to date. This prolonged disruption has seriously impacted tourists and adversely affected the tourism sector.[91]
Since early 2024, Pakistan’s 128 million internet users have faced significant disruptions, including repeated outages of mobile networks and social media platforms.
Furthermore, The Economic Survey of Pakistan 2024 highlights growth in IT and telecom sectors, driven by the China-Pakistan digital corridor under CPEC. SI Global Solutions CEO Noman Said stated, “This initiative, part of CPEC, aims to enhance digital connectivity through improved fiber optic networks, data centres, and cloud computing capabilities. These developments are expected to attract substantial Chinese investment, boost local startups, create job opportunities, and position Pakistan as a regional technology hub”.[92] The enhanced digital infrastructure will also benefit tourism by making travel planning and services more accessible, supporting smart tourism initiatives, and attracting international visitors, thereby promoting Pakistan’s rich culture and scenic landscapes.
On the digital payment indicator, the country is ranked 118, with a score of 2.06. Due to initiatives like digital onboarding, Raast (instant payment system), Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), and fintech advancements, digital payment systems are growing rapidly. The State Bank of Pakistan’s Payment Systems Review for Q3 2023 states that the volume and value of retail transactions increased by 4.2% and 22.4%, respectively. Interestingly, 80% of these transactions were digital, indicating a significant national move towards digital banking.[93]
The ranking for the indicators, the use of digital platforms for hotels, restaurants, and leisure activities, and the use of digital platforms providing transportation and shipping are 95 (score, 4.34) and 66 (score, 4.46) respectively.
One critical area requiring attention is power losses, % of domestic supply. While the ranking dropped to 103, the value remained at 17.24%, indicating no change in this factor impacting ICT infrastructure. Per a report released by the Pakistan Credit Rating Agency (PACRA) in February 2024, the financial cost of transmission losses was estimated to be approximately PKR 30.794 billion in fiscal year 2023.[94]