Latest news with #KazimMujtaba
Express Tribune
18-07-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Industry calls for fixing basics before adopting 5G
Listen to article The Asian Development Bank's (ADB) latest report has highlighted critical weaknesses in Pakistan's digital infrastructure, warning that without urgent reform, the country risks falling further behind regional peers in broadband adoption and digital inclusion. Despite mobile broadband coverage exceeding 80% of the population, only 54% of Pakistanis are active mobile internet users. The gap, according to the ADB, is driven by high taxation, low affordability of devices and a persistent digital literacy divide, particularly among women and rural population. "Pakistan's digital potential is immense, but it remains under-utilised," said Kazim Mujtaba, President of Consumer Division at Jazz. "The fact that millions remain offline despite being covered by mobile broadband reflects a systemic issue: for many, connectivity is still unaffordable." The report notes that Pakistan remains one of the most heavily taxed telecom markets in the region, with broadband use subject to nearly 20% sales tax in addition to import duties and unpredictable spectrum pricing. These policy challenges, according to telecom operators, not only raise the cost of service for end-users but also limit investment in infrastructure. "The ADB's recommendations are closely aligned with what the industry has long been advocating," added Mujtaba. "Simplified taxation, predictable spectrum pricing and easier rights of way for fibre are not just technical fixes; they are enablers of inclusive growth." The ADB has called for a series of structural reforms to unlock Pakistan's digital economy. These include reducing the GST on telecom services to a flat 5%, delinking spectrum fee from the US dollar to avoid exchange rate shocks and facilitating public-private partnerships to expand connectivity in underserved regions. The report also stresses the importance of improving digital access in public institutions such as schools and health centres. While 5G remains a policy ambition, the industry maintains that immediate focus must be on closing the gap in 4G use. "We need to fix the basics first – access to affordable smartphones, digital literacy and reducing the gender divide," said Mujtaba. "Without that, any talk of 5G is premature."
Business Recorder
30-04-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
ROX to launch Nothing's iconic devices in country
ISLAMABAD: ROX, Pakistan's leading youth lifestyle brand from Jazz, has partnered with Nothing, the London-based tech company known for its iconic transparent design and cutting-edge performance, and Yellostone Technologies, a leading distribution company in Pakistan, to officially launch Nothing's iconic devices in the country for the first time. Through this partnership, Pakistani consumers can now experience Nothing's latest products, including the acclaimed Phone (2), Phone (2a), and CMF Phone 1. To mark the occasion, early adopters of the Nothing Phone (2) and Phone (2a) will receive a complimentary pair of CMF Buds, along with the exclusive ROX Insane Vibe Bundle that includes 200 GB of high-speed data, 5,000 all-network minutes, and 5,000 SMS. The Nothing CMF Phone 1 (8+128GB) is being offered at PKR 84,900, while the Nothing Phone 2a (12+256GB) is priced at PKR 144,900 and the flagship Nothing Phone 2 (12+512GB) is available at PKR 239,900 — both bundled with a complimentary pair of CMF Buds. Building on this momentum, the highly anticipated Nothing Phone (3a) is also scheduled to launch in Pakistan later this year, further expanding the brand's growing ecosystem in the country. Talking about the mutual partnership between Jazz and Nothing, Kazim Mujtaba, President Consumer Division at Jazz, said, 'Our partnership with 'Nothing' highlights our dedication to bringing the latest in cutting-edge technology to Pakistan. As the nation's largest digital operator, serving over 100 million Pakistanis, we are excited to exclusively introduce the Nothing phones series with ROX, our Lifestyle Youth Brand, which shares a similar philosophy with Nothing to provide seamless connectivity, superior performance, and an unparalleled user experience.' While commenting on the potential of the Pakistan smartphone market, Rishi Kishor Gupta, Regional Director of Nothing MEA, said, 'As Pakistan's smartphone market continues to grow at pace, it presents the perfect opportunity for Nothing to bring our innovative technology and unique design language to a new generation of users. Our entry into this dynamic landscape marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to make tech more fun, more expressive, and more accessible for all.' Echoing this vision, Carl Pei, CEO of Nothing, has emphasized the company's mission, 'We're building a world where tech is fun again. Remember a time where every new product made you excited? We're bringing that back.' This partnership signifies a new chapter in Pakistan's tech landscape, offering consumers innovative products that blend functionality with unique design. Farid Jan, Founder and CEO of Yellostone Technologies, stated, 'We're attuned to the aspirations of Pakistan's new generation. In a market saturated with similar devices, Nothing offers a refreshing alternative. Our collaboration aims to introduce these groundbreaking smartphones and, soon, Nothing's range of wearables, including earbuds and smartwatches. We are committed to ensuring nationwide availability and delivering an exceptional retail experience.' Aligned with Jazz's commitment to innovation, this partnership with Nothing supports the company's shift from connectivity to broader digital services. As Pakistan's leading Service Co, Jazz serves over 100 million users through a portfolio that includes fintech (Jazz Cash), entertainment (Tamasha), digital self-care (SIMOSA), InsurTech (Fikr Free), enterprise cloud solutions (Garaj), and gaming (Game Now), empowering platforms that enhance the lives and livelihoods of Pakistanis through technology. The Nothing product range is now available in-store at 10 Jazz Experience Centres across major cities of Pakistan and will soon be available for online purchase via the ROX App. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
