OICCI stated in a statement published on social media platform X on Thursday that it has continuously argued that Pakistan’s economic growth is dependent on a robust digital infrastructure.

But as the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) has pointed out, regular internet outages like the one that’s currently plaguing the country pose a threat to this goal. WISPAP has reported that internet speeds have dropped by 30–40% in the last few weeks, according to OICCI.

There is now a disruption in internet services throughout Pakistan; the cause is not yet known.

The OICCI statement draws attention to problems facing Pakistan’s economy, which has had decades of difficulty luring and keeping investment. Due to its persistent instability, uneven policymaking, and propensity for raising spending in unproductive areas, investors have shied away from the country because they do not believe that its population of over 240 million people represents a large enough market. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) frequently provides bailouts, and the economy has remained more vulnerable to shocks than its regional counterparts.

In 2023, Pakistani business owners raised a mere $75.8 million through 39 agreements, according to a statement released by OICCI. This is a dramatic fall in investment and deal volume year over year of 77% and 42%, respectively.

Above all, independent contractors