ISLAMABAD – Faced with shrinking revenues and rising operational costs, Pakistan’s leading telecom operators are actively diversifying into digital services—including fintech, cloud computing, content streaming, and enterprise solutions—to reduce dependence on traditional voice and data businesses.
Companies such as Jazz, Ufone, Zong, and Telenor are expanding beyond connectivity by investing in digital ecosystems. Jazz has repositioned itself as a technology-focused company, promoting its JazzCash mobile banking platform and launching services in cloud hosting, messaging, and digital content. Zong and PTCL have similarly begun investing in AI-powered tools and cloud infrastructure to serve business clients and data-heavy industries.
The strategic shift comes at a time when average revenue per user (ARPU) continues to decline, and the cost of doing business has surged due to spectrum license fees, exchange rate volatility, and high interest rates. These financial pressures have forced operators to rethink their models to remain profitable in a changing digital landscape.
Data services now account for nearly 65% of total industry revenue, yet operators are seeking more sustainable income streams through diversification. Investments in Tier-III data centers, secure cloud platforms, and business continuity services are gaining traction as telecoms target enterprise clients in sectors such as banking, education, and health.
Industry experts argue that telecom operators must transform into broader technology companies to survive long term. While network infrastructure remains essential, the future of the sector lies in the development of integrated digital ecosystems. Supportive government policies, public–private collaboration, and strategic innovation will be crucial in accelerating this transition.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.
