Internet disruptions could cost Pakistan $300m, IT group warns

The warning comes as netizens face slowdowns in internet services, social media restrictions, and lost jobs

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ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan could lose up to $300 million because of internet disruptions, an IT group warned Thursday.

"We see a careless and reckless implementation of the national firewall that threatens to strangle the IT industry before its maturity," said Ali Ihsan from the Pakistan Software Houses Association. “The internet, its reliability, quality, and throughput are of national interest. Anyone acting against it should review their decisions.”

Amid the government’s attempt at controlling social media content, Pakistani netizens have complained about a slowdown in internet services which have become routine.

Many have complained of losing freelance jobs as the internet is their main source.

The X platform remains blocked in the country of nearly 250 million since Feb. 18.

"These disruptions are not mere inconveniences; but, a direct, tangible and aggressive assault on the industry's viability – inflicting devastating financial losses estimated to reach $300 million, which can further increase exponentially," said Ihsan, as his group demanded the government review its decision.

Read also: Senate committee demands action on internet slowdown within two weeks

The IT industry is facing a “disaster; grappling with unprecedented operational disruptions that threaten the very foundation of Pakistan's burgeoned tech sector,” he added.

The government has denied installing a firewall.

"I am creating logos and selling them to different companies and people across the world but I am unable to work for the last one week as the internet is not working in our area," Islamabad-based freelancer Muhammad Amin told Anadolu.

Amin said government action has created trouble for all freelancer workers.

"I am earning around $700 to $1,000 but this month, I don't think would be able to earn in this situation," he said.