Pakistan experiences internet slowdown as government increases surveillance efforts.
Pakistan-Internet service providers in Pakistan are experiencing significant slowdowns, which they attribute to increased government surveillance efforts intended to improve security.
The Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) reports that these measures have inadvertently disrupted the country’s digital economy.
WISPAP states that internet speeds have decreased by 30 to 40 percent in recent weeks, affecting both businesses and individuals reliant on consistent connectivity. The most impacted sectors include call centers, e-commerce, and online businesses, with some considering moving their operations to countries with more stable internet services.
Shahzad Arshad, Chairman of WISPAP, has expressed serious concerns about the deteriorating conditions. He cautioned, “Customers are increasingly abandoning smaller ISPs because of poor service quality. If these disruptions continue, we could witness a major departure of businesses from Pakistan.”
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The current conditions have damaged Pakistan’s reputation as a hub for digital entrepreneurship and are jeopardizing economic stability. Stricter surveillance measures, including limitations on VPN use, have particularly impacted international businesses and freelancers who depend on reliable, secure internet access.
Industry leaders caution that the ongoing internet issues could lead to a shift of operations overseas, as companies struggle to compete in the global market under the current constraints. A leading e-commerce entrepreneur from Karachi remarked, “The lack of fast and secure internet is driving us to the edge.”
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While the government has pledged to prioritize security, the persistent internet slowdown has led to calls for a balanced approach that addresses both national security and the needs of the digital economy.
The situation is exacerbated by access problems on major platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, further complicating Pakistan’s digital landscape.
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