Pakistan Strengthens Digital Connectivity, Improves 27 Places in ITU ICT Rankings
Pakistan has recorded a significant improvement in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) ICT Development Index 2026, with its overall score rising from 56.4 in 2025 to 67.7 in 2026, reflecting a 20% relative increase. The country also improved its derived position by 27 places, while its connectivity pillar score increased by 22.8 points and its Meaningful Connectivity score reached 79.
The ICT Development Index, based on a revised methodology introduced in 2023, measures both Universal Connectivity and Meaningful Connectivity, evaluating factors such as network availability, affordability, service quality, device ownership, and data usage. The improved ranking highlights Pakistan’s progress in expanding digital infrastructure and improving access to reliable internet services.
Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the improvement reflects the government’s commitment to building a digitally connected Pakistan under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision. She added that stronger ICT indicators will support education, employment, freelancing, entrepreneurship, and digital public services, while boosting investor confidence and accelerating the country’s transition toward an inclusive digital economy.
