Pakistan is falling behind its neighbors in digital connectivity, with the country ranking near the bottom globally for both mobile and fixed broadband speeds, according to the latest data from Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index.
The index shows Pakistan at 98th for mobile internet, with average download speeds of about 25 Mbps. By comparison, India ranks 27th, Sri Lanka 78th, and Bangladesh 92nd.
The situation is worse for fixed broadband, where Pakistan stands at 144th, with speeds averaging just 18 Mbps. India is 99th, Bangladesh 98th, and Sri Lanka 164th.
Global benchmarks make the gap clear. Worldwide, average mobile internet speeds are around 60 Mbps, while fixed broadband averages about 100 Mbps.
Experts say the numbers highlight Pakistan’s urgent need to improve digital infrastructure. The Digital Rights Foundation (DRF) said the country’s weak internet affects economic growth, education, and access to information. “Fast and reliable internet is no longer a luxury; it is essential for development,” a DRF said in a statement.
Analysts warn that without stronger investment in broadband and mobile networks, Pakistan risks falling further behind its regional peers in technology, trade, and education.
