Islamabad: Pakistan has seen a significant increase in household internet connectivity, with access rising from 34% in 2018-19 to 69% in 2024-25. This growth has been driven by the widespread rollout of mobile broadband, reduced data costs, and a growing dependence on digital platforms following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite these advancements, significant disparities remain in internet usage, particularly among women and rural populations.

According to Gallup Pakistan’s analysis of the Household Integrated Economic Survey (HIES) 2024-25, the report sheds light on the current state of digital access, usage, and exclusion in Pakistan. The study, which collected data from over 32,000 households, highlights ongoing inequalities shaped by gender, geography, affordability, and digital skills. The findings reveal that while a majority of households now have access to mobile phones, effective internet use remains limited, with only 57% of individuals aged 10 years and above having used the internet in the last three months.

Affordability and perceived relevance of the internet are identified as primary barriers to access. For many low-income households, the recurring costs of data are prohibitive, while a lack of awareness about the internet’s benefits contributes to its underutilization. This gap is particularly pronounced among older adults, women, and individuals with low educational attainment.

The survey also highlights a pronounced skills deficit, with most users familiar with basic digital tasks but lacking advanced skills necessary for higher-value digital work and online learning. This skills gap has economic implications, restricting participation in the digital economy and reinforcing existing inequalities.

Digital financial exclusion is another critical issue, with only 12% of adults owning a bank account and 9% using mobile-money services. A vast majority, 76%, remain without any financial account, digital or physical, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to ensure that increased connectivity translates into financial inclusion.

The report underscores the need for coordinated efforts to address these challenges, emphasizing investments in digital literacy, gender-responsive access, and the integration of digital services with education and finance to ensure inclusive digital transformation in Pakistan.