PTA Licenses 300 Firms to Expand Internet Services Across Pakistan
The new PTA internet licences are expected to encourage more businesses to enter the internet service market, particularly in districts where broadband coverage remains limited.
Focus on Underserved Districts
According to PTA officials, a significant number of the newly issued licences cover districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where internet connectivity remains limited in several areas.
The initiative is aimed at improving access to reliable internet services and extending broadband coverage to remote and underserved communities.
New Framework for Small Businesses
Under the new licensing framework, small and medium-sized businesses can provide internet services within a single district.
Each company can obtain only one district-level licence, which will remain valid for 10 years. The PTA internet licences are designed to allow local businesses to participate in the expansion of broadband infrastructure.
Licence Fees and Requirements
Companies receiving approval must pay a one-time licence fee of Rs300,000, along with an annual licence fee of Rs100,000 during the first year.
Licence holders are required to begin commercial operations within 12 months of receiving their licences. They must also register at least 100 broadband subscribers during their first year of operation.
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PTA Sets Bandwidth Rules
The PTA has directed licensed internet providers to obtain bandwidth only from properly authorised operators.
The requirement is intended to ensure that internet services operate within the regulatory framework while supporting reliable connectivity for consumers.
The PTA internet licences could also create opportunities for local companies to develop fibre-based networks in areas that currently have limited broadband infrastructure.
More Broadband Coverage Expected
The licensing initiative is expected to encourage local investment in the internet service sector and support the expansion of fibre networks across underserved districts.
With the issuance of PTA internet licences to 300 firms, the regulator aims to increase competition and help bring broadband services to more communities across Pakistan.
