Recent research conducted by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) has revealed shocking results regarding the impact of internet shutdowns on Pakistan’s economy. The study estimates that a 24-hour internet shutdown causes a loss of approximately $1.3 billion, which is equivalent to 0.57 percent of the daily GDP in Pakistan.
This eye-opening revelation is part of PIDE’s research titled “The Economic Cost of Internet Closure,” which highlights the severe consequences of internet shutdowns on the Pakistani economy, according to an official statement from PIDE on Sunday.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Nadeem ul Haque and Muhammad Shaaf Najib of PIDE emphasized that the internet has become a fundamental necessity in modern times. However, internet services in Pakistan are lagging in both coverage and quality. Although internet shutdowns affect many businesses, the freelance community suffers significantly, facing severe consequences such as canceled orders and a resultant loss of $1.3 million.