ISLAMABAD/KARACHI: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has approved the adoption of Wi-Fi 7 and subsequent Wi-Fi generations in the 6 GHz band (5925–6425 MHz), aligning with parameters previously cleared for Wi-Fi 6E. This pivotal regulatory move positions Pakistan among the early adopters in the Asia-Pacific region, underscoring a commitment to rapid digital innovation and regional technological leadership.
The approval of Wi-Fi 7 is expected to be a catalyst for the country’s digital economy. The technology promises ultra-high data rates, low latency, and robust reliability, capabilities essential for advanced applications like 8K streaming, Augmented/Virtual Reality (AR/VR), and industrial automation. By alleviating congestion in older bands and lowering broadband delivery costs, the initiative aims to significantly enhance connectivity for households, SMEs, healthcare facilities, and smart cities, reinforcing the PTA’s goal to bridge the digital divide.
The Promise of 5G and Financial Hurdles
In a related and significant announcement, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, stated on Tuesday that the government plans to introduce 5G services within months in seven major cities.
The promise of 5G internet comes even as the country faces acknowledged hurdles. Last December, a report citing the PTA’s annual assessment for 2024 highlighted the financial difficulties and a potential “difficult transition” associated with moving to 5G wireless technology, despite the growing usage and penetration of wireless telecommunication services nationwide.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the 26th ITCN Asia Expo in Karachi, the Minister noted that parallel measures are underway to ensure more reliable internet access across the country.
Digital Infrastructure as an Economic Core
The Minister underscored that Information Technology will serve as the “core element” of the recently signed Pakistan-Saudi agreement, which is expected to bolster Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and accelerate economic growth.
Offering a broader picture of the country’s financial health, the IT Minister stated that Pakistan had moved away from fears of default, that inflation had moderated, and that macroeconomic conditions were now stabilising. She acknowledged the commercial importance of the country’s largest city, remarking, “Karachi carries the weight of the country’s economic development.” These statements frame digital acceleration not just as a technological leap but as a fundamental pillar of national economic stability.
