President of Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industry (HCSTSI), Muhammad Saleem Memon, today voiced serious concerns regarding the government’s policies, particularly the shutdown of internet services in Pakistan.
According to a HCSTSI statement issued today, he is also written letters to Federal Minister IT and Telecommunication, Finance Minister and Chairman PTA. He stated that such inexplicable measures are not only hampering the IT sector but are also casting a significant shadow over the national economy. At a time when the global economy is racing toward digital integration, such decisions by the Pakistani government are pushing the country further into regression.
He highlighted that the IT sector, a crucial source of foreign exchange for Pakistan, has been severely impacted by the internet disruption. According to the Pakistan Software Export Association, just three days of internet suspension led to a staggering loss of PKR 10 billion. The government, which usually earns PKR280 million in daily tax revenue from this sector, suffered an estimated loss of PKR840 million during this period. Additionally, 2.5 million freelancers, e-commerce platforms and small businesses have been severely affected, putting the livelihood of millions at risk.
President HCSTSI drew comparisons with countries like India, which has propelled its IT exports to USD 194 billion in 2023 through governmental support and favorable policies, including the establishment of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and tech parks. Similarly, China has achieved global leadership in e-commerce and AI by investing heavily in 5G and ensuring internet accessibility. Malaysia has also set an example with its ‘Digital Malaysia Program,’ focusing on affordable and high-speed internet for digital economic growth. In contrast, Pakistan’s decisions are not only damaging its economy but also tarnishing its international reputation.
He further pointed out the detrimental effects on education, noting that the internet suspension has disrupted the reliance of students and educators on digital platforms. Additionally, online food delivery services such as Food Panda, Uber Eats, and others, along with courier and taxi services, have faced devastating setbacks. Daily wage earners dependent on these platforms-delivery riders, taxi drivers, and couriers-have found their income streams halted, jeopardizing their ability to meet household expenses. This disruption is not just an individual challenge but a blow to an entire economic class.
Chamber President Saleem Memon urged the government to acknowledge that internet access is a fundamental right and an essential driver of economic and social progress. The Chamber called for immediate steps to ensure uninterrupted internet availability and a comprehensive strategy to bolster the IT sector. He recommended launching technical training programs for youth to enable them to compete globally, introducing secure payment systems for freelancers to bring their earnings into Pakistan, and addressing the needs of the digital economy to align with global standards.
He concluded by stating that Pakistan must focus on becoming a part of the global digital economy rather than making decisions that further entrench the country’s challenges. The need of the hour is visionary leadership and strategic actions that pave the way for national progress in this digital era.