Pakistan has made noticeable progress in closing the digital gender gap as more women are now using mobile internet, according to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s (PTA) annual report for 2025.

The report, released on Wednesday, shows that the number of women aged 18 and above using mobile internet increased sharply from 33 percent in 2024 to 45 percent in 2025. This rise is being seen as a positive step toward digital inclusion and equal access to technology.

PTA data highlights a remarkable long-term change. In 2017, only 10 percent of women in Pakistan used mobile internet. Today, that figure has climbed to 45 percent, with over eight million women coming online in just one year.

On the other hand, the report notes that 60 percent of men in Pakistan currently use mobile internet, showing that while progress is strong, a gap still remains.

According to the PTA, these figures reflect the impact of joint efforts with public and private institutions to reduce the digital gender divide. The authority described the trend as encouraging and forward-moving.

The report also points out that the mobile gender gap has dropped from 38 percent to 25 percent, indicating a clear reduction in digital inequality across the country. This improvement is being welcomed as a sign of growing awareness and access.

However, challenges still exist. The report reveals that 40 percent of women, compared to 28 percent of men, say they are aware of mobile internet but do not actively use it. This suggests that awareness alone is not enough confidence, affordability, and skills also matter.

PTA estimates that if the gender gap in mobile internet usage is fully bridged, Pakistan could unlock up to four billion dollars in economic value, underlining how digital inclusion can fuel growth and opportunity.

Overall, the report paints a picture of steady progress, cautious optimism, and untapped potential as Pakistan moves toward a more connected future.