Is Pakistan's internet much better and cheaper than the rest of the world?

On January 8, 2025, in Karachi, Pakistan, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar spoke at the opening ceremony of the Media Cricket League, addressing recent criticisms regarding internet connectivity in the country. He asserted that internet services in Pakistan are "much better and cheaper" compared to many other countries, arguing that claims of significant financial losses due to internet outages were overstated. Tarar attributed this assessment to a VPN forum, asserting that improvements in internet infrastructure have been made and that further enhancements are anticipated in the near future. Despite previous reports of sluggish internet speeds and connectivity issues experienced by users over 2024, Tarar dismissed these claims as politically motivated. He emphasized that the Pakistani internet market offers highly competitive prices for services, citing advertisements promoting unlimited data plans from local telecom and networking companies. The minister acknowledged past glitches but maintained that the government is committed to enhancing the internet experience for users. In response to concerns about content blocking and throttling, the government clarified that it has not intentionally slowed down internet speeds but has been working on upgrading its web management system to bolster cybersecurity. Digital analysts note that the government's initiatives could be misinterpreted as attempts to limit access to certain online platforms, though officials have denied such allegations. Overall, Tarar's comments reflect a push for more positive perceptions of Pakistan's internet services while acknowledging the need for ongoing improvements. The context of this discussion stems from widespread frustrations among internet users in Pakistan who may have felt the impact of reduced functionality from online platforms, particularly for applications that rely heavily on data transmission, like WhatsApp. As the government seeks to reshape the narrative around internet quality in the country, the emphasis remains on affordability and ongoing developments aimed at better service delivery.