ISLAMABAD – 22 February 2026: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has reaffirmed its commitment to consumer protection, addressing concerns raised on social media regarding mobile tariffs, service quality and unauthorised deductions.
In a statement, PTA said it has notified the Mobile Tariff Regulations, 2025 to establish a structured and fair tariff framework. Under the new regulations, operators with Significant Market Power (SMP) must obtain prior approval from PTA before introducing or revising tariffs.
Other operators may set tariffs based on business considerations, but PTA retains the authority to intervene if pricing is deemed harmful to consumer interests.
While emphasising its role as a consumer watchdog, PTA noted that maintaining sustainable market conditions is also essential for long-term sector growth. It highlighted that Pakistan continues to record one of the lowest Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) figures and among the most affordable mobile data prices in the region.
To improve service quality, PTA pointed to the upcoming spectrum auction scheduled for March 2025, which will require significant investment from mobile operators to acquire additional spectrum and upgrade network infrastructure. The regulator said this is expected to result in measurable improvements in coverage, network quality and data speeds nationwide.
PTA also reiterated that mobile operators are strictly required to obtain explicit prior consent before activating any value-added services. Consumers have been encouraged to regularly review and manage active subscriptions through their operators’ official mobile applications.
The authority urged consumers facing service-related issues to lodge complaints through its toll-free helpline (0800-55050) or via the online Complaint Management System available on its official website.
