ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has started the licensing process for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), a move that could bring new players into Pakistan’s telecom market and give consumers more service options.
The regulator announced that the process has been launched following the approval and notification of the MVNO policy framework by the federal cabinet.
Under the new system, MVNOs will be able to provide mobile services under their own brands by entering into commercial agreements with existing Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), which own and operate telecom infrastructure.
PTA said the licences will be issued for an initial period of 15 years. Applicants will be required to meet the authority’s eligibility requirements and comply with all regulatory and operational conditions.
According to the regulator, the introduction of MVNOs is expected to encourage innovation, strengthen competition in the telecom sector and offer customers a broader choice of mobile services.
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The authority has invited interested companies to submit applications for MVNO licences. Information related to eligibility criteria, application procedures, fee structure and the approved licence template has been made available through PTA’s official platforms.
The development is being seen as an important step towards opening up the telecom market to new business models and supporting the continued growth of Pakistan’s digital economy.
A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) is a company that provides mobile phone services without owning its own wireless network infrastructure. Instead, an MVNO purchases network capacity from an existing Mobile Network Operator (MNO) and then offers voice, data and other telecom services to customers under its own brand name.
The MVNO model is widely used in many countries and is often credited with increasing competition in the telecom sector. Because MVNOs do not need to invest in building mobile towers and network infrastructure, they can focus on developing innovative service packages, targeting specific customer groups and offering competitive pricing. Industry experts say the model can help expand consumer choice while making better use of existing telecom networks.
