The Digital Landscape of Pakistan
By
Samra Muslim
The Internet and social media are changing advertising, marketing and public relations, and it is time that the marketing professionals in Pakistan put digital in its proper place and give it an appropriate role. 2012 year end industry estimates have claimed a 100% growth in digital advertising spend in Pakistan to over PKR1 billion—this is still a drop in the bucket given the overall industry numbers and potential.
The below infographic outlines the digital landscape in Pakistan—consolidating several studies that have recently been published in the market—including the Economic Survey for 2011-12 by the government of Pakistan, on which 2012-13 budget of the country is based. This infographic provides several key figures for businesses and digital marketers to understand the digital diaspora in a statistical and concise form.
It is important to note that, Pakistan is still struggling with multiple issues like Internet censorship, lack of 3G services or online payment solutions—millions of Pakistanis have learned to embrace digital platforms (via mobile & Internet) for work, to socialize or keep themselves updated with the latest news.
The statistics, however, are based on data starting for 2010 to some more current and up to date numbers. Industry numbers and information in some areas—especially digital advertising and eCommerce—are just not available; in those cases, estimates or feedback from industry experts has been used. It is good enough for a quick understanding.
Samra Muslim has over 10 years of experience in public relations, marketing and communications, social media, event management and brand activation in a diverse range of industries. She is currently a student of social media and digital marketing, and is working as the Project Manager of Digital at M-holdings in Karachi, Pakistan. Follow her on Twitter @samramuslim or visit her web site, www.samramuslim.com, for more information.
