The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has addressed public concerns circulating on social media over rising mobile tariffs, service quality and unauthorised billing deductions, reaffirming its commitment to consumer protection and regulatory oversight.
In an official statement, PTA announced the notification of the Mobile Tariff Regulations, 2025, introducing a structured framework for tariff management across the telecom sector. Under the new regulations, operators designated as having Significant Market Power (SMP) will be required to seek prior approval from PTA before introducing new mobile tariffs or revising existing ones.
Other telecom operators will retain the flexibility to determine tariffs based on business considerations. However, PTA has clarified that it reserves the right to intervene if pricing practices are found to be detrimental to consumer interests.
The regulator emphasised that while consumer protection remains a central priority, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the telecom market is equally important. PTA noted that Pakistan continues to record among the lowest Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) figures and comparatively affordable mobile data rates within the region.
Addressing service quality concerns, PTA highlighted the upcoming spectrum auction scheduled for March 2025. The auction will require operators to invest in additional spectrum acquisition and network expansion, which the authority expects will enhance coverage, improve data speeds and strengthen overall service performance.
Furthermore, PTA has directed all mobile operators to obtain explicit prior consent from subscribers before activating any Value-Added Services (VAS). Consumers have been advised to actively monitor and manage their subscriptions through official operator applications to avoid unauthorised charges.
The authority reiterated its resolve to maintain a transparent regulatory environment that balances consumer rights with the sustainable growth and development of Pakistan’s telecom sector.
