ISLAMABAD – A recent report by VR Social reveals that Pakistan internet services rank among the ten most expensive in the world for fixed broadband. The average cost stands at $0.53 per megabit per second (Mbps), higher than countries like the UK ($0.36), South Africa ($0.50), and Indonesia ($0.41).
Despite this, Pakistan is far from the most expensive. The UAE tops the list, with broadband prices reaching $4.31 per Mbps — nearly eight times higher than Pakistan internet rates. Other countries with steep costs include Ghana ($2.58), Switzerland ($2.07), Kenya ($1.54), and Morocco ($1.16). These high prices are often linked to limited competition and costly infrastructure development.
In comparison, nations in Eastern Europe and parts of Asia provide internet at dramatically lower rates. Romania charges only $0.01 per Mbps, making it 53 times cheaper than Pakistan internet services.
Russia and Thailand charge $0.02 per Mbps, while Chile, Poland, and Singapore offer broadband at $0.03 per Mbps. Analysts attribute these low prices to competitive telecom markets and robust infrastructure, areas where Pakistan still lags.
The report highlights that Pakistan’s relatively high internet costs are mainly due to slow expansion of fiber optic networks, insufficient market competition, and significant infrastructure gaps, especially in rural regions. These challenges hinder widespread access and affordability for many Pakistanis.
Experts suggest that improving Pakistan internet accessibility and lowering costs will require policy reforms, investment in fiber optics, and promotion of competitive markets. Enhancing broadband infrastructure could boost digital growth, support businesses, and increase access to online education and services.
As global comparisons reveal, countries with strong competition and modern infrastructure enjoy much lower prices, while Pakistan continues to face challenges that keep internet costs high for consumers.
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