The launch of 3G/4G services in Pakistan has had a significant impact on the country’s employment landscape, as revealed by documents. Since the successful auction of spectrum in the 2100 MHz and 1800 MHz bands in June 2014, telecom operators have been actively rolling out 3G/4G networks and towers across the nation, creating both direct and indirect job opportunities.
According to the documents, the telecom sector has generated an estimated total employment of 200,000 jobs (combining direct and indirect positions). Out of these, approximately 5,780 jobs have been directly created by the telecom companies themselves. The remaining job opportunities are classified as indirect, and they stem from various sectors associated with the 3G/4G expansion. These include employment opportunities in Mobile Phone Shops, Franchises/Retailers, Tower Manufacturers, Tower Installation Companies, Tower Security Staff, Sub-Contractors, Consulting/Service Companies, and other related segments.
Additionally, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has granted 30 authorizations to mobile device manufacturing companies, resulting in an estimated 50,000 jobs being created in this sector.
It is essential to note that the employment figures mentioned above do not encompass the induced employment effects triggered by the widespread adoption of 3G/4G services in Pakistan. Industries like e-commerce, e-businesses, e-banking, ride-hailing and delivery services, freelancing, and others have likely contributed to further job opportunities across the economy. The impact of 3G/4G on these sectors, while not explicitly quantified, has undoubtedly played a role in boosting employment prospects in the country.
