In a news release issued on Sunday, February 22, 2026, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) addressed growing public frustration over rising mobile costs and “hidden” charges. The regulator emphasized its commitment to consumer protection while navigating the delicate balance of keeping the telecom sector financially viable.
New Mobile Tariff Regulations 2025
To prevent arbitrary price hikes, the PTA has officially notified the Tariff for Cellular Mobile Telecommunication Services Regulations, 2025.
- Prior Approval for SMPs: Operators designated as having Significant Market Power (SMP)—specifically Jazz and Zong in several regions—are now legally barred from introducing or changing any tariff (including bundles and “limited time offers”) without prior written approval from the PTA.
- Non-SMP Flexibility: Smaller operators have more freedom to set prices based on business costs but must still notify the PTA and consumers at least 7 days before implementation.
- Regulator Intervention: The PTA reserved the right to suspend or revoke any tariff if it is found to be “predatory” or detrimental to the public interest.
Clarification: Islamabad, 22nd February 2026: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) wishes to address recent concerns published on social media regarding mobile tariffs, service quality, and unauthorized deductions, and to reassure the public of its unwavering commitment… pic.twitter.com/mMFmUguauX
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) February 22, 2026
The “5G” Solution: March 10 Spectrum Auction
Acknowledging complaints about call drops and slow data, the PTA confirmed that the long-awaited 5G/NGMS Spectrum Auction is scheduled for March 10, 2026.
- Investment Requirements: The auction is expected to fetch between $300 million and $700 million.
- Quality Mandates: Winners will be under strict obligations to improve 4G download speeds from the current average to a minimum of 20 Mbps by 2026–27, and eventually 50 Mbps.
- 5G Rollout: Initial 5G services are expected to launch in major cities (Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta) within 3 to 6 months after the auction.
Ending Unauthorized Deductions (VAS)
A major pain point for consumers—unauthorized balance deductions for “Value-Added Services” (VAS) like games or news alerts—is being strictly targeted.
- Explicit Consent: Operators must now obtain documented, prior consent from a user before activating any paid service.
- Self-Management: Consumers are urged to use their operator’s official apps (e.g., Jazz World, My Zong, My Telenor) to check for active subscriptions and report any unauthorized charges immediately.
Regional Comparison: Pakistan’s Low ARPU
The PTA highlighted that despite the inflation-driven price increases, Pakistan’s Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) remains remarkably low—sitting at less than $1.00 (approx. Rs. 280) per month.
Context: While data prices in Pakistan are among the most affordable globally, this “painfully low” ARPU has historically limited the ability of telcos to invest in network upgrades, a gap the upcoming spectrum auction seeks to bridge.
How to File a Complaint
If you are facing unauthorized deductions or poor service quality:
- Call the Helpline: Dial 0800-55050 (Toll-Free).
- Online Portal: Visit the PTA Complaint Management System at complaint.pta.gov.pk.
- App: Use the PTA CMS App available on Android and iOS.
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