The IT sector in Pakistan is currently grappling with considerable obstacles stemming from frequent internet outages and slow connectivity. Experts estimate that these issues could lead to financial losses surpassing one million dollars for the industry, particularly affecting businesses that focus on exports.
In a recent media forum, Sajjad Mustafa Syed, Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), highlighted these challenges, stressing their detrimental effect on the nation’s standing as a global provider of IT services.
Mr. Syed pointed out that while brief internet interruptions may appear trivial on a local scale, they pose significant difficulties for international clients who depend on consistent services for critical operations, including stock exchanges, airport management systems, and banking services. He cautioned, “If clients lose trust and turn to other countries, regaining their business could prove extremely challenging.”
The topic of prohibiting Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) was also discussed. Officials indicated that there is currently no legal basis for such a ban, which has alleviated some concerns for businesses that rely on secure and dependable connections to cater to their global clientele.
An internal survey conducted by P@SHA indicated that a majority of its members have experienced financial losses due to internet disruptions, with numerous foreign clients voicing worries regarding the reliability of services.
The association has urged the government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to tackle these issues and ensure a robust internet infrastructure. Without such measures, the IT sector risks losing its competitive advantage, which could adversely affect Pakistan’s economic development.
This situation underscores the urgent need for collaboration between government entities and industry stakeholders to enhance the nation’s digital infrastructure and bolster its IT export economy.
