Pakistan’s Mobile Subscribers Rise to 196.58 Million in November, PTA Reports

Cellular Growth Continues, But Market Nears Saturation

Pakistan’s total cellular subscriber base recorded marginal growth in November 2025, reaching 196.58 million, up from 196.15 million in October, according to the latest data released by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

While the increase reflects continued expansion, it also highlights the near-saturation of the country’s mobile market.

Teledensity Shows Minimal Movement

Despite the rise in subscribers, mobile teledensity—the number of mobile connections per 100 people—remained largely stable at around 79 percent during the month. Overall teledensity showed a slight uptick, increasing from 79.89 percent in October to 79.94 percent in November, signaling limited room for rapid expansion.

3G and 4G Users Post Modest Gains

Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS), including 3G and 4G users, also witnessed a modest increase. The combined subscriber base rose from 148.07 million in October to 148.20 million in November, adding approximately 131,000 users during the month.

However, the NGMS penetration rate dipped slightly, declining from 59.5 percent to 59.46 percent, extending a gradual downward trend amid slower adoption of advanced mobile services.

Operator-Wise Performance Shows Mixed Trends

Telecom operators delivered mixed results in November:

Jazz, the country’s largest operator, continued with zero 3G users, while its 4G subscriber base declined for the third straight month, falling to 55.0 million from 55.04 million.

Zong emerged as a relative gainer in the 4G segment, increasing subscribers from 41.35 million to 41.56 million. However, its 3G user base declined during the same period.

Telenor Pakistan experienced erosion across both technologies, with 3G users slipping to 0.93 million and 4G subscribers edging down to 26.92 million.

Ufone reported contrasting trends, losing a significant number of 3G users, but posting growth in its 4G segment, which rose to 19.08 million.

Industry Faces Slower Growth Momentum

Industry analysts note that while Pakistan’s mobile subscriber base continues to grow, the pace remains subdued due to market maturity, affordability constraints, and slower migration to next-generation services.

The data highlights the need for telecom operators to prioritize network quality, service innovation, and digital inclusion to drive sustainable growth in an increasingly saturated market.