The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued 21 district-level licenses for internet services. This marks a crucial step towards enhancing broadband access in Pakistan.
The initiative aligns with the Broadband Policy 2004. It officially begins on January 1, 2026.
Each license will remain valid for 10 years. License holders must operate within a single district.
Applicants pay an application processing fee of Rs. 20,000 and an initial license fee of Rs. 300,000.
Once licensed, operators need to pay an annual fee of Rs. 100,000, which will increase by 10% each year.
Operators must also start providing services within one year of receiving their license. They are required to offer at least 100 broadband connections.
The PTA received a total of 62 applications for these district-level internet licenses, approving 21 so far.
Zuma Resources Limited has entered into a global telecom partnership with Telna North America Inc. This agreement allows Zuma to launch a global telecom brand.
The partnership aims to expand into markets such as Europe and the UK, and Zuma is exploring a Mobile Virtual Network Operator license from the PTA.
This move is expected to foster local entrepreneurship and improve internet penetration in underserved areas across Pakistan.
The PTA’s actions could significantly impact telecom competition and the burgeoning eSIM market in the region.
