Pakistan’s telecom regulator has dismissed speculation that it plans to outlaw Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), saying such a move would harm businesses and stall the country’s push to expand its technology sector.
The clarification came during a Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology meeting, where lawmakers raised questions over online privacy and internet access.
VPNs Seen as Essential for Global Business
Officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) told the committee that VPNs are not just tools for bypassing restrictions—they are critical for secure communications, remote work, and global data exchange.
“Blocking VPNs outright would be both impractical and damaging,” one official noted, emphasizing that many Pakistani companies depend on encrypted connections to operate internationally. A blanket ban, they added, would be difficult to enforce and counterproductive for businesses.
Focus Shifts to Strengthening IT Infrastructure
Instead of restricting VPN use, the PTA said its priority is building a stronger digital ecosystem. Current initiatives include attracting foreign investment, expanding broadband access, and encouraging homegrown innovation.
The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) also presented its strategy to accelerate growth. While Pakistan’s share of the global IT market is still under 0.04%, IT exports jumped 20% in the past year, crossing the $3 billion mark in 2023.
eRozgar Program to Create Jobs, Train Talent
To capitalize on this momentum, PSEB is launching the eRozgar program, which aims to equip young professionals with digital skills and create new employment opportunities. The initiative reflects Pakistan’s broader strategy to shift from a consumer-driven internet economy to one that produces and exports technology services.
Analysts: Policy Stability Key to Scaling Exports
Industry observers say Pakistan’s rapid growth in IT exports shows strong potential, but warn that regulatory uncertainty could discourage investors. A decision to keep VPNs accessible signals that policymakers may be prioritizing growth over heavy-handed control.
With global demand for software and IT services climbing, Pakistan’s next challenge will be scaling its talent pool and ensuring policy stability to compete with regional tech hubs like India and Bangladesh.
