In a major regulatory move, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has rolled out a new ten-year Class License for Internet Services, tightening compliance rules, mandating net neutrality, and enforcing strict quality and security standards across districts.
This development comes as Pakistan seeks to modernize its digital infrastructure, curb grey traffic, and raise service quality. By binding operators to international best practices, PTA aims to protect consumers while ensuring fair competition among internet providers.
Under the new license, operators can only provide services in designated districts and are prohibited from unauthorized voice termination, bandwidth resale, or anti-competitive cross-subsidization. For the first time, licensees are legally required to uphold net neutrality and adopt eco-friendly practices like energy-efficient systems and e-waste recycling.
Key Requirements of PTA’s New License:
Category
Details
License Duration
10 years
Initial Fee
PKR 300,000
Annual Fee
PKR 100,000 (+10% yearly)
Rollout Obligation
Services within 1 year, 100 broadband users minimum
Compliance
Net neutrality, e-waste recycling, energy efficiency
Technical Standards
24/7 NOCs, disaster recovery, lawful interception
Data Retention
Real-time, stored for 1 year, no transfer abroad
Penalties
2% late fee/month, suspension, termination, public apology
Operators must also establish round-the-clock Network Operations Centers, maintain disaster recovery plans, and guarantee service continuity during emergencies. Security measures include lawful interception systems and strict data retention rules.
PTA retains the power to inspect operators’ facilities, enforce monitoring, and block websites when required. Officials stated the new framework is designed to align with global cybersecurity norms and ensure consumer protection.